Childhood and Adolescence The years from birth through late teen years are a time of rapid growth and great change. During these years, people change in many ways. Their bodies grow. They go through enormous social and emotional changes. Growth follows a general pattern, but the specific times at which each person goes through these changes are unique to that individual.

Infancy Growth is fastest during the first year of life- the period called infancy. During this year, infants may triple their body weight. They learn basic movements such as sitting, crawling, and standing. They begin to understand simple words that are spoken to them. Most importantly, infants form attachments to their parents and learn to trust (or not trust) them.

Childhood Children aged 1-3 are called toddlers. During this stage, children learn to walk well, as well as run, jump, and climb. Toddlers like to explore their surroundings. They start to want to do things on their own. If parents accept the failures and encourage the successes, the child builds confidence.

Childhood (cont.) Children ages 3-5 are called preschoolers. They enjoy make-believe activities. They may even have imaginary playmates. Preschoolers ask many questions as their minds develop. If they are encouraged to be creative and curious, they will learn to start activities on their own.

Childhood (cont.) From ages 6-11, children have many social experiences, especially through school. At this stage, children learn to get along with their peers. They begin to compare themselves with others. They learn right from wrong, and they begin to understand the reasons for rules.

Adolescence Next to infancy, adolescence is the time when you grow and change the most. Adolescence marks the period between childhood and adulthood. At this time, many changes occur in your body, in your thinking and feeling, and in your relationships with people.

Adolescence (cont.) The changes that happen during adolescence are related to hormones in your body. Hormones are chemicals that control certain functions of the body. The changes caused by these hormones are preparing you for adulthood.

Adolescence (cont.) Adolescence begins with puberty. Puberty is the time when you begin to develop certain physical traits of the adults of your sex. Girls often show the physical changes of adolescence earlier than boys. The physical changes of adolescence usually begin between the ages of 11-15. These changes occur over a period of several years. They usually end between the ages of 16-20.

Physical Changes Of Adolescence GIRLS Height increase 2-8” Acne Increase in underarm & pubic hair Increase in perspiration More defined facial bone structure BOYS Height increase 4-12” Acne Increase in underarm & pubic hair Increase in perspiration More defined facial bone structure

Physical Changes Of Adolescence (cont.) GIRLS Development of breasts Hips widen Waistline narrows Formation of mature eggs Beginning of menstrual periods BOYS Increased muscle development Start of receding hairline Broadened shoulders Enlargement of external genitals Beginning of sperm production

Mental/Emotional Changes During adolescence, you often have mood swings. These mood swings are most likely due to hormones. As you mature, you start to think about things in new ways. You consider the possible effects of your actions. You also start to consider the viewpoint of others. Most importantly, during this time, you learn about who you are and you develop your own set of values.

Social Changes During adolescence, your friendships become especially important to you. This is a time in your life when you may be strongly influenced by your friends. You want their approval. But as you mature, you learn to follow your own standards. By the end of your teens, you will have formed your own ideas about who you are and how you fit into the world.