Periods of Development
Early Childhood Fact Sheet
Resources
Berk, L. E. (2013). Child development. (9th ed.). Upper Saddle
River, NJ: Pearson. Retrieved from https://content.ashford.edu/
Oswalt, A. (n.d.). Early Childhood Physical Development:
Gross and Fine Motor DevelopmentRetrieved from
https://www.gracepointwellness.org/462-child-development-
parenting-early-3-7/article/12755-early-childhood-physical-
development-gross-and-fine-motor-development
Morin, A. (n.d.). Developmental Milestones for Typical 4-Year-
Olds. Retrieved from https://www.understood.org/en/learning-
attention-issues/signs-symptoms/developmental-
milestones/developmental-milestones-for-typical-4-year-olds
Physical Milestones
Angela Oswalt explains that children around the age of three to four are
developing better upper body strength meaning they can steer a tricycle or hit a
stationary ball from a tee (n.d.). Children are now beginning to gain a better
control on their bodily movements. They also gain a better control of their lower
body as they can hop, skip, jump, and even walk backwards.
Language Milestones
Children in this period of development are now exposed to more language as they
begin learning in classroom settings as well as communicating with other children
and adults. Berk (2013) states, “Language areas are especially active from late
infancy through the preschool years, when language development flourishes
(Pujol et al., 2006; Thompson et al., 2000)” (Section 5.2). The significant
exposure to language expands the vocabulary a child knows significantly allowing
them to create full sentences and communicate with ease.
Cognitive Milestones
Children’s cognitive development continues to expand as they expand on their
basic abilities to count, draw, color, and write as well as their memory. Amanda
Morin (n.d.) says, “They start thinking about and understanding things they can’t
see or touch; you might notice your child starts to become “an idea man” (para 3).
The ability to determine whether something is real or make believe occurs during
this period as well as the understanding that pictures and symbols stand for real
life objects.
Social-Emotional Milestones
During this period of development, children are more social than ever. Children
continue to establish new friendships and maintain old friendships, while seeking
acceptance from others. They also can comfort themselves and control their
emotions better but will still require guidance from an adult.
Moral Reasoning/ Self -Regulation Milestones
Children begin to internalize family values and now have a sense of family norm
which ultimately helps develop themselves. They also begin to understand the
concept that what they do affects others – the Golden Rule.
Signs of Atypical Development
Atypical development is more noticeable during this period especially because
they can be compared to other children preforming the same tasks. If children
show little to no interest in make believe play or does not communicate well with
others can be a sign. Parents should be aware of any atypical signs occurring at
home including issues sleeping, using the restroom, getting dressed, essentially
daily routine objectives.
Influencing Learning and Development
This period of development encourages children to remain active and engaged
with the world around them. Families should influence learning and development
through activities that engage the developmental domains such as sports, clubs,
games, and family time. Flash cards are available in a variety of topics and can be
very helpful in learning numerous subjects. Families should encourage outdoor
play over indoor play as long.
Social and cultural influence
Through social interactions with others, children learn about the world, those who
inhabit it and the rules, practices and values established within it. With each
interaction a child has they are likely to discover there are various beliefs that
different from their own as they are exposed to different cultures through these
interactions
Play-based Strategies
Engaging all five senses, children engross their own curiosity for deeper
understanding. Another strategy would be for the children to collaborate and
present information together is a fun way like drawings or coloring, videos, even
dressing up.