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Page 1 of 7 If we know what to expect at each stage of development, it is easier to decide if our child's behavior is "normal." These stages are approximate. The age isn't as important as the progression. Some children reach a stage faster, some reach it slower. Generally, all kids go through much the same things. Knowing what to expect can help parents deal with the frustrations and problems that are quite normal for each age. Behaviors that get stuck in one stage are cause for concern, otherwise, don't worry.
One can get by parenting easy kids with common sense and love. Parenting difficult kids requires love, compassion, endurance, and skill that is not common. Fortunately, the necessary skills can be learned. A parent's skill won't change the child into an easy kid, but it will prevent problems from getting worse.
To go directly to: - Infancy
- Six Months
- Nine Months
- One Year
- Fifteen Months
- Eighteen Months
- Twenty-one Months
- Two
- Two and a Half
- Three
- Four
- Five
- Six
- Seven
- Eight
- Nine
- Ten
- Eleven - Twelve
Infancy
What to expect: Babies cry.
Needs: Love and basic care.
A baby can't be spoiled by too much love. Also needed: nutrition, kisses, steady change of diapers, change of scenery.
Parents' need: Time off and sleep.
Special problems: Fussy baby.
Six Months
What to expect:
- Child is always moving.
- Favorite game: dropping and throwing toys.
- Child puts everything into the child's mouth.
Needs: Same as infancy. Protection.
Never leave child unattended. Babies roll off beds, changing tables. Unless baby is on the floor, keep a hand on the baby or use a restraint system. Keep small things off the floor and out of reach.
Discipline:
- Take things away from baby or take baby away from things.
- The word "NO" should be used in moderation, gently. Be kind.
Nine Months
What to expect:
- Baby is crawling, pulling up.
- Child has no concept of property.
- Everything is a toy.
- Still puts everything in mouth.
Needs:
Discipline:
- Discipline by moving the child away from the problem or move the problem away from the child.
- Use the word "no" with kind firmness.
Special problems: Separation fears.
Baby is afraid to be left; wakes up during the night.
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