Development and Growing Up

Every child is unique. They all develop in their own time. As they grow, there will be areas of development and learning which will come more easily to them. There will be other areas of development that will be more of a challenge. All babies, children and young people have basic needs that need to be met so they can reach their potential.

There are things that can affect a child’s journey. These can include:

• Being born prematurely
• Having differences in the way their brain or body is structured or works
• Having significant time spent in hospital
• Requiring life-saving interventions.

Any of the above factors can affect the timing and path of their developmental journey.

In general, your child will benefit from being met “where they are". Support should be given at the right time and place depending on their own unique journey. Try not to worry about their age or what other children experience. It is important to discuss your questions about your own child with your child’s health team. Here is some information that may be helpful.