Knowledge of Parenting & Child Development

Parenting (or child rearing) is the process of promoting and supporting the physical, emotional, social, financial, and intellectual development of a child from infancy to adulthood.

What is child development?
Children grow, develop, and learn throughout their lives from birth and infancy to adulthood. A child's development can be measured through social, physical, and cognitive developmental milestones. If children fail to develop properly they may be unable to reach their full potential. However, healthcare professionals and parents can work together as partners to help children grow up healthy and strong.

• Parents know their children best—their unique behaviors, interests, and abilities.
• It is challenging for any parent to be an expert on all aspects of infant, child, and teenage development or the most effective ways to support a child at each stage.
• When parents are not aware of normal developmental milestones, or they do not know how to respond to and effectively manage a child's behavior, they can become frustrated and may resort to harsh discipline or emotional withdrawal.
• Children thrive when parents provide not only affection, but also respectful communication and listening, consistent rules and expectations, and safe opportunities that promote independence.
• Successful parenting fosters psychological adjustment, helps children succeed in school, encourages curiosity about the world, and motivates children to achieve.

Here are some resources that may help you understand your style of parenting and some tips on child and adolescent development:

Typical Child Developmental Milestones:

Birth to 3 Years of Age

Babies - Establishing Routines

Discipline - Values

Effective Discipline

Toddlers - Disobedience and discipline

Parents - Controlling Your Anger

10 Best Ways to Praise Your Child