A child develops in many different ways during the first eight years of their life. The often quoted “First 5″ mantra has been recently expanded to the first eight years. During these eight years, a child develops socially, physically, intellectually, creatively and emotionally at a tremendously greater pace than at any other time of their life. This is when it is of the utmost importance for parents to do whatever they can to help with the development of their child.

• Socially - Your child will begin to form attachments, play with others, learn to share, and be able to create lasting relationships with others.
• Physically - Development of your child’s motor skills takes shape. Play is very important, as it stimulates these motor skills to properly develop.
• Intellectually - Your child will begin to question things in the world around them. This is when the ability to process information and make sense of it starts to take shape.
• Creativity - Your child will begin to exhibit creativity, often artistically, musically or in other “left brain” activities.
• Emotionally - Your child will begin to learn how to understand their own feelings and emotions, and start to develop self-awareness and self-confidence.

As a parent you have to recognize your role as teacher, and your child’s role as your “young pupil”. With this understanding of your role, development will be far more productive.