Development in infancy: physical, cognitive and socio-emotional

 Development in infancy: physical, cognitive and socio-emotional

Normal development refers to learning and mastering skills in four categories – physical, emotional, mental and social. Although separately categorized, they are all linked, and occur simultaneously at each stage: 

Physical includes broad motor skills such as include rolling over, standing, walking, running, and sitting; as well as being able to maintain balance, change positions, etc. Physical also includes using fingers and hands to clutch, eat, draw, dress, play, write, etc. 

Emotional skills include how she reacts to events and occurrences around her. Does she giggle and laugh at the silliest things, or is she distant? As she matures, does she learn to deal with events, or does she get frustrated and angry? 

Mental, or cognitive skills include thinking, learning, understanding, problem-solving, reasoning, and remembering. Much of this will be revealed in academic settings, such as preschool and beyond. 

Social skills have to do with personal interactions, developing and maintaining relationships with family, friends, and teachers; cooperating, and being sensitive while responding to others. Does she withdraw at parties? Does she enjoy large gatherings or being around a small group of friends, and how does she navigate and interpret the social world around her? (Rojas, 2018)