Children develop in different stages, experiencing physical, cognitive, and social-emotional milestones along the way. The changes children go through and the milestones they reach can be categorized into different domains of human development, which helps us recognize the stages our children have passed, are currently in, and are growing into. With this knowledge, family members and caregivers can nurture and respond to the needs of the children in their lives, and encourages learning and development through quality interactions – like exploring, playing, and learning together!

The Four Domains

The four Domains of Development are Communication, Curious Minds, Sense of Self & Relationships, and Strong & Healthy Bodies. Each of these describes an area of growth and learning.

Communication

This domain includes understanding the meaning of feelings and ideas expressed by others, symbol and alphabet awareness, developing reading and writing abilities, and receptive and expressive language (expression by listening and using speech, sounds, gestures, facial expressions, body language, and words).

Curious Minds

This domain includes concepts, skills, and actions that help kids explore, understand, and take an active role in the world around them, such as initiative, confidence, persistence, the ability to focus, and the development of wonder and curiosity. This domain also includes creative expression and early learning skills like social studies and STEM concepts.

Sense of Self & Relationships

This domain includes emotional and behavioral skills and refers to the development kids go through during which they begin to understand who they are, what they are feeling, and what to expect when interacting with others. In this domain, kids learn confidence and empathy, grow their self-concept, develop relationships, and learn to manage emotions.

Strong & Healthy Bodies

This domain includes overall health status, as well as self-help skills, a growing awareness of meeting basic needs, good health and nutrition practices, and gross and fine motor skills (use and control of the body).