Adrian tried to teach Sammy, a 5-year-old, how to read and took out a novel called Lord of the Rings. Sammy could not read the book and all the sentences and was exceedingly frustrated. At school, Sammy learned how to sound out letters and vowels and came home practicing the sound da da. He could read, and this was hard work- because it wasn't developmentally appropriate for him.

 

Similar to reading, when it comes to emotional/psychological development - adults forget what is developmentally appropriate for children, especially since every age is full of different challenges and milestones. It is no fault to the parent! There is no manual for growing little humans. There are, however, lots of thoughts on the matter. We try to stick to the science and what appears in the research. Most of the time grown-ups can not remember what being young was like or what skill they were supposed to master; you were just having fun, like you were supposed to be doing. Developmentally appropriate means ensuring that the learning, goals, and expectations are appropriate and achievable for each particular age. 

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Grown-ups tend to do too much for their child or expect too much from their child, which results in a lot of pressure, confusion, frustration, and hopelessness for all involved.  Grown-ups may also have worries and anxiety about their kids, and if they are on the right path. Our therapists help children and parents navigate these years and thrive.

 

Below are blogs written by Cary, our clinical Director, and Sarah, assistant clinical director, providing information on the strengths and needs of appropriate developmentally support children ages 2 - 11. 

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Click below for specific information by age:

 

Terrific Two! 

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Oh To Be 3!

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Here comes Four!

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Have you met Five?

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It's time for Six! 

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What's Up With Seven?

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The Great (and Not So Great) Eight!

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It's Time For Nine!

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It's time for Ten!

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Eleven is all about transition.

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Want to learn more?

 

 

Cary offers an educational platform called Playful Wisdom that greatly benefits parents.