Pediatric Emotional Growth & Development

The fastest rate of brain development occurs during the first five years of a child's life, according to the Child Development Institute of Orange, California, an organization run by mental health and medical workers. During middle childhood, ages 6 to 12, children's social worlds expand to include friends, teachers and coaches. Emotional growth and development varies with each child; it might be harder to detect than physical development, according to the article, "Social and Emotional Development," published on PBS.org. Direct any concerns to your pediatrician.

  1. The First Year

    • During the first month of life, babies are helpless and cry to get their needs met; trust begins to form as the needs of being fed, changed and held close are consistently met by the primary caregiver. During the second month, babies begin to fixate on faces and smile. Between 4 and 6 months of age, they recognize their mothers and begin to respect a general routine of feeding, bathing and dressing. During the second six months, babies are generally well-attached to their mothers, making separation anxiety common in this age group. They enjoy playing "peek-a-boo," and their main focus becomes exploration, according to the Child Development Institute. Babies this age might fear strangers, understand what the word "no" means and begin to wave goodbye.

    Toddler Years

    • Twelve- to 18-month-old babies might be prone to cling excessively to their caregivers, exhibiting dependent behavior. They take joy in watching themselves in the mirror and have the ability to obey limited commands. Eighteen- to 24-month-old children might not be emotionally or physically ready to potty-train at this age. Babies this age might feel jealous of and resent a new brother or sister. Doing the opposite of what they are told and intense anger and frustration, known as negativism, becomes apparent at about 30 months of age.

    Preschool Years

    • At the age of 3, children continue to engage in parallel play, which is playing alongside their peers. They might display dependent behavior, resist parental demands, refuse to share their toys, and they might give orders and insist on doing things a certain way, according to the Child Development Institute. Three- and 4-year-old children are generally affectionate toward their parents, are able to complete the routine established for them at home and enjoy sharing and cooperative play. Children between 4 and 5 years of age prefer to playing with others over playing alone and take pride in their accomplishments.

    Middle Childhood

    • Preparing for adolescence is the primary task of middle childhood, according to Karen DeBord, a child development specialist with North Carolina State University. At this age, maturity levels vary according to the child. Peer interactions, their perceptions of their experiences throughout the day and how they feel in general have a direct effect on the moods of children in this age group. Children might back-talk and rebel to test limits with their parents and possibly other adults in their lives. DeBord reports that children in this age group average about five best friends and one enemy among their acquaintances or circle of peers. Middle childhood children are developing a better understanding of their actions, behaviors and consequences and developing problem-solving skills.

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