Understand Your Child’s Development and How to Respond Positively

Knowing how children grow is one of the best ways to set reasonable expectations for your child and yourself - and save everyone daily frustration.

Here are some simple tips to support your journey as a parent. Maybe you're already doing some!

Understanding child development

• Learn what your child needs at different ages and stages of development.
• Know that your child is unique and will develop differently than others.
• Kids change as they grow older. Adapt to meet new and ongoing needs.
• Have a relationship with a doctor’s office that answers your questions about the ages and stages of your child’s growth and development.
• Stay calm and present when your child is sad, angry or frustrated. Help them understand their feelings are normal and okay.
• Take a class to learn positive parenting strategies.

Understanding your child

• Read a story with your child.
• Ask your child questions about their day. Make this a part of your regular routine.
• Share your feelings and let them share theirs.
• Make sure kids understand what is safe and unsafe.
• Eat dinner together regularly.
• Celebrate when they succeed in school.
• Play games that encourage conversations.
• Spend time at your local library.
• Track growth on a chart or wall.
• Meet another family at the park. Help your child learn what it means to play well with others.
• Connect with trusted parents who can offer you counsel and wisdom.
• Be present at their school and after-school activities.

Learn more about protective factors for your family.

Child Development Parenting  Family Feelings Mental Health Parenting Play Stress Bonding Child Development Parenting