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Updated April 1, 2017

Module 2: Child Growth and Development

Introduction to Child Development

Page 4
Studying and understanding child development is an important part of teaching young children. The more providers know about the development of children, the more prepared they will be to meet the emotional, social, intellectual, and physical needs of the children in their care.  No two children are alike. Children differ in physical, cognitive, social, and emotional growth patterns. They also differ in the ways they respond to play, affection, objects, and people in their environment

Think of the children that you know; each is different from the others. Some may always appear to be happy, while other children’s personalities may not seem as pleasant.  Some children are active, and still others are typically quiet. You may even find that some children are easier to like. To help all of these children, you need to understand the sequence of their development. 

By studying child development, you will develop a profile of what children can do at various ages. Understanding growth and development will help you plan appropriate programs for children. Knowledge of child development is essential to guiding young children and planning a developmentally appropriate curriculum. 
​Child Care Licensing Guidebook: Page 58
​WAC 170-295-2030 
Helping children grow and learn: Children are born with the ability and desire to learn. Research concludes that quality child care programs can significantly increase the emotional, social, intellectual, and physical outcomes of the children in care. The more providers know about the development of children, the more prepared they will be to meet the emotional, social, intellectual, and physical needs of the children in their care."

    Principles of Child Development​  * Module 2 Page 4 (1/13)