Children are one of the most fascinating mysteries in life. Yes, we are talking about human children here, though kittens and puppies are fascinating in their own ways. But babies have a particular way about them. They seem so simple, so free. Yet, they are also clever, challenging and even vindictive, making child care a uniquely satisfying experience.
Plus, they only get more complex with age. They learn to walk, speak, grip and interact with the world in myriad ways. Sometimes, ways that confound or challenge parents. Still, though, it is crucial to determine what kids should be capable of at what stage in their development. This is the essential purpose of development milestones.
What Should My Child Do & When?
We all know that newborns have a certain age where they can start eating solid foods. In the same way, we know when they should crawl, walk and talk. But, there are a number of other developmental cues that we can use to gauge the ability and growth of our offspring.
Many governments and independent organizations have done studies on when children should be able to do certain activities. As a result, the breadth of knowledge on this subject is both deep and variable. Today, we will be looking at the Alberta Government’s information on the subject, available through this link.
Also, gauging your child’s development compared to other children is important for identifying and treating developmental disorders and disabilities. This information can be critical in making an early determination of their ability to perform certain functions and abilities. Here are the physical growth requirements for two-year-olds, as an example:
- Have grown about 38 cm (15 in.) since birth.
- Gain weight and grow at a steady but slower pace than during their first 12 months of life. Between 12 and 24 months of age, expect your child to gain about 1.5 kg (3 lb) to 2.5 kg (5 lb), grow an average of 7.5 cm (3 in.) to 13 cm (5 in.), and gain about 2.5 cm (1 in.) in head circumference (the measurement around the top of the head).
- Are rapidly developing motor skills. Around the second birthday, children can usually go up and down stairs one step at a time, kick a ball, and are starting to run. Most children can also stand on their tiptoes. You may see your child carrying toys, sometimes large toys, around the house. Pull-toys are also a favourite around this age.
For a complete overview of the development milestones at age two, and all the way up to age 18, consider looking at the information provided by the Alberta Government.
How to Deliver Better Child Care Through Development Milestones
Our daycare uses the newest technology and information available to help foster and nurture your child’s development. To learn more about our child care and how it helps your kids reach their full potential, contact us today!
2000 Days Daycare is the daycare in Calgary SW, where your child will learn, laugh and grow. Our focus is to ensure that the first 2000 days of your child’s life (the most important for development) is maximized. We provide the platform where your child develops the soft skills that can help them communicate effectively, get along with other children, control their emotions, develop self-motivation and help them creatively solve problems. As a family operated and owned SW Calgary daycare centre, we give the extra time, attention and care that your children deserve, so they can develop the skills to excel at school and grow in self-confidence. Feel free to contact us at 403-319-2332 (Extension 1) or book a tour of our Calgary daycare today!