Key Principles of Child Development

Child development proceeds along a predictable pathway marked by developmental milestones.

The range of normal development is wide. Children mature at different rates.

Various physical, psychological, social, and environmental factors, as well as diseases, can affect child development and health. For example, chronic diseases, child abuse, and poverty can contribute to detectable physical abnormalities and influence the rate and course of developmental advancement.

The child’s developmental level affects how you conduct the medical history and physical examination.