What is Course of Development?

Let’s look at how the course of development plays out for a child named Liam:

• Infancy: As a newborn, Liam relies on reflexes and begins to develop basic trust in his caregivers. Over the first year, he learns to roll over, sit up, and eventually crawl and walk.
• Toddlerhood: Between ages 1-3, Liam’s language skills blossom. He goes from saying single words to forming short sentences. He also learns to feed himself and begins to assert his independence.
• Preschool years: From 3-5, Liam’s social skills grow as he learns to share, take turns, and express emotions. His imagination soars during pretend play. He also refines motor skills like running, jumping, and drawing.
• School age: Once Liam starts school, academic and social demands increase. He learns to read, write, and do math. Friendships become more important, and he participates in group activities and sports.

Throughout this typical course of development, Liam builds upon earlier skills to master increasingly complex tasks, guided by his parents and teachers.