Ages and Stages:
Understanding Children's Development

Children don’t come with instruction manuals—and each child is a unique individual. However, parents with a basic understanding of the way children develop can be more confident in their role. This workshop provides parents with information about how children grow and develop in a variety of ways. Participants will:

• Become familiar with the stages of physical, cognitive, and social development of children and adolescents.
• Learn when children can be expected to be able to complete certain developmental tasks.
• Evaluate their expectations in terms of their child’s developmental level.
• Discuss ways to learn more about their children and to understand them better.

This workshop was developed by Kathy Dothage, Human Development Regional Specialist.

This page briefly describes one of many programs offered through University of Missouri Extension. Workshops are scheduled periodically based on the needs and interests expressed by local citizens. Not all of these workshops are available in every county, and specialists may present additional workshops that cover topics not included on this list. Contact your nearest Extension Regional Specialist for more information about the programs that are available in your area

The following resources contain additional information about child development.

Missouri Extension Guides

• GH6121 Baby Basics—Social and Physical Development

• GH6235 Development During the School-Age Years of 6 Through 11

• GH1800 Children’s Activity Pyramid

• GH6020 Home Safety Checklist for Families With Young Children

• GH6122 How Preschoolers Develop: Body, Mind, and Personality

• GH6026 Protecting Children from Unintentional Injuries

• GH6002 Sexuality and Your Child—For Children Ages 3 to 7

• GH6128 Toilet Training

• GH6113 Understanding and Encouraging Your Young Child’s Large Motor Development