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Updated April 1, 2017

Module 2: Child Growth and Development

Differences in Development

Page 10
You May Print or Save Handouts for Reference
​* Handout: Differences in Development
Developmental milestones are “an action or ability marking a significant stage in development.”  These markers of development:
  • Are specific skills that are usually achieved by a certain age.
  • Occur in all developmental domains-- physical, social, emotional, intellectual and cognitive.  
  • Are used to measure children’s achievements and needs, giving families accurate feedback on their child’s development. 
Red Flags are warning signs that development may be delayed or atypical.  These red flags are noticed when children don’t meet milestones as expected.  Each child’s development is unique and develops in a continuum.  But if a child shows a pattern of not being able to do things that most other children are doing at the same age, it may indicate that further assessment is needed.  Red flags are cause for action but not alarm! Children benefit most when caregivers can identify potential delays and signs of challenges as early as possible.  Remember it is not your role to diagnose children but to refer them for further assessment and possible early intervention.  In Module 3 you will learn more about observing, assessing, and referring children.
​Child Care Licensing Guidebook: Page 101
WAC 170-295-2080 
Advising Parents of Their Child’s Individual Progress
WAC 170-295-2080 states that you must have written documentation signed by the parent in each child’s file stating that you have “advised the parent of the child’s progress and issues relating to the child’s care”. This may include documentation that they have received written observations or assessments, reviewed a child’s portfolio (a collected sample of their work), or attended a parent-teacher conference. You can contact your local resource and referral agency or community and technical college for more information about developmentally appropriate assessments of children."
You cannot deny a child a place in your center because of a sensory, mental or physical disability if the center has the equipment and staff to meet the child’s needs. In practice, staff skills may need to be higher, staff to child ratios may need to be lower and program supervision may need to be greater when you enroll children with special needs. All the children in your program, however, will benefit from including children with special needs. Inclusion contributes to acceptance, improved socialization, and understanding of individual differences. The importance you place on treating all people fairly sets an example for the children in your care. What you say, the way you say it, the way you act and even your choice of books and other materials can encourage children to think positively about themselves and other people. *​ WAC 170-295-6010 *
Optional Online Resources for Further Study
  • Developmental Milestones. National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention