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Milestones and Child Development

Every child is different, but doctors and other experts in child development expect that a child will demonstrate recognizable skills and abilities by a certain age range. To help assess the growth of a child's physical and cognitive abilities, including their language and social skills, professionals describe the skills that most children develop by a certain age. These anticipated skills are known as Developmental Milestones. Practicing Every Child Ready to Read’s five daily practices can aid in reaching developmental milestones and set your child on the path to reading and writing.

If your child seems slow to reach any developmental milestone, there’s no reason to panic. Many children set their own pace in development and each child is unique. However, it’s always important to talk with your child’s doctor about any concerns you may have. If your child has any delays, it’s good to start on a plan for intervention as early as possible so your child can make the best possible progress as they age. Here are some great resources to help!

American Academy of Pediatrics: HealthyChilren.org - Ages and Stages
This site links to lists of skills to look for at various ages. 

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
This site details important speech and hearing topics such as delays and disorders, literacy, and communication development.

CDC’s Developmental Milestones
From birth to 5 years, your child should reach milestones in how they play, learn, speak, act and move. Track your child’s development and contact your doctor if you have a concern. Try some of the activities suggested on this Milestone Checklist!

Monroe Smart Start: Kindergarten Readiness
What your child learns between the ages of 0-5 can help prepare them for starting kindergarten. This site provides a checklist of some different skills used in kindergarten that you can help your child practice.

Premature Baby Milestones
Children who are born prematurely often have very different milestone guidelines. This page, sponsored by the American Academy of Pediatrics, outlines what to expect when your little one was born prematurely.

Zero To Three
The first three years of your child’s life is crucial in developing skills! Zero to Three offers great tips and information to parents and caregivers on the development of babies and toddlers.