Age-Based Development Guides

Navigate each stage of your child's development with confidence. Our guides combine research-backed insights with practical parenting strategies.

Prenatal stage illustration
Prenatal
Conception to Birth

Comprehensive support for expecting parents through every stage of pregnancy and preparation for parenthood.

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Infant stage illustration
Infant
0-1 year

Navigate rapid development, attachment building, and learning to respond to your baby's needs.

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Toddler stage illustration
Toddler
1-3 years

Navigate the first steps of independence and big emotions.

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Preschool stage illustration
Preschool
3-5 years

Support social development and early learning foundations.

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Elementary stage illustration
Elementary
6-11 years

Guide school-age growth, friendships, and new challenges.

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Tween/Teen stage illustration
Tween/Teen
12-18 years

Connect through adolescent changes and identity formation.

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Emerging Adult stage illustration
Emerging Adult
19-25 years

Support the transition to independence and adult relationships.

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Need Personalized Guidance?

Every child and family is unique. Schedule a consultation for tailored support.

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Child Development Theories

Understanding the major theories of child development can provide valuable context for your parenting journey. Explore how different psychologists have mapped the path of human development.

Erikson's Psychosocial Development

Human development progression from infant to adult

Erik Erikson proposed that we face eight psychosocial crises throughout our lives, each centered on a specific developmental task or conflict. Successfully navigating each stage builds psychological strengths that help with future challenges.

Trust vs. Mistrust (0-18 months)
Babies learn whether the world is safe and reliable through consistent caregiving.
Autonomy vs. Shame/Doubt (18 months-3 years)
Toddlers develop a sense of independence as they learn new skills.
Initiative vs. Guilt (3-5 years)
Preschoolers explore their power to create and direct play.
Industry vs. Inferiority (5-12 years)
School-age children develop competence through learning and accomplishment.
Identity vs. Role Confusion (12-18 years)
Adolescents explore who they are and their place in society.

Developmental Milestones

While every child develops at their own pace, these milestones provide general guidelines for typical development across different domains.

A Note About Development

Tree illustration representing diverse paths of child development and growth

Every child develops at their own pace. The age ranges in our guides and developmental theories are approximations, not rigid expectations. Development is influenced by many factors, including:

  • Individual temperament and biological factors
  • Family dynamics and parenting approaches
  • Cultural context and values
  • Educational experiences
  • Environmental factors

If you have concerns about your child's development, trust your instincts. Our mental health screeners are designed to help guide your understanding and support discussions about your child's needs. These tools are not formal assessments but can provide helpful insights. Our team is available for personalized consultation and support.