What Is Infant Development?
As an infant grows, they develop in a number of ways. For example, they learn about the things around them, develop better eyesight and learn to focus, and get better control over their gross motor skills to reach and grasp objects. In terms of language, babies learn to babble, and they begin to listen to and understand the people around them. All of this active learning and skill building falls under the umbrella of infant development. (1)
When a child learns a new skill, they reach a “milestone.” Milestones include activities and actions such as learning to play or standing up. Not all children follow the same trajectory, so some will develop skills faster than others or in a different order. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other medical providers have established these developmental milestones to serve as general guidelines for parents and other caregivers.
There are many stages of development in the first several years of a child’s life, but the infant development stages are those that occur within the first 12 months. During this time, there are cognitive and brain developments, as well as developments in the child’s social and language skills. Children even develop some recognition of danger, which can lead to anxiety in these early months. (4) Fortunately, parents can take steps to guide their children and make their development go more smoothly.
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Catrina Cowart is a writer on the Editorial Team for MentalHealth.com, focusing on behavioral health, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and borderline personality disorder.
Erin L. George, MFT, holds a master's degree in family therapy with a focus on group dynamics in high-risk families. As a court-appointed special advocate for children, she is dedicated to helping families rebuild relationships and improve their mental and behavioral health.
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