Every child is different and every stage in a child's life can bring new and interesting challenges.  As parents, it is important to learn about and be aware of our children's needs and differences at different stages of their development. 

It can be hard to know what are typical behaviors for kids of various ages but experts have been able to identify milestones in how a child typically plays, learns, speaks and acts at various ages. 

The Minnesota Department of Education has pulled together detailed information on common milestones for children from age 3 months to 5 years which also list simple things you can do to support and encourage your child's healthy development. 

Reviewing these milestones can help you recognize if your child is developing at a different pace then other children their age.  If you identify a concern, you can use this information to start a conversation with your child's doctor, child care provider, or teacher who can help you determine next steps. 

Another Minnesota resource is Foundations for Success, a colloboration focused on the mental health and/or social emotional development of children.  Their website includes information for parents on sign a child might need help as well as information on how to find help. 

To sign up for a free newsletter with valuable information about child development, visit Parents as Teachers.  You'll receive specific information tailored to the age of your child or children. 

In Suburban Ramsey County, we have two additional resources for questions about your child's development:

Suburban Ramsey County Early Childhood Information and Referral (ECI&R) 651-604-3700:  If you have questions or concerns about the development of a child from birth to six years old, call for free information and resource referrals. They can also help connect you to resources appropriate for your child's needs. 

Parent Warmline 612-813-6336:  A service of Children's Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota, this is a non-crisis, non-medical service.  Call this number to leave your name, telephone number, and a brief description of your concern and a Warmline volunteer will return your call within 24 hours to listen, offer practical advice and encouragement, and help connect you with other resources.  Volunteers have professional experience and most are also parents. 

Additional Resources:

Aha! Parenting includes age based parenting tips for children from pregnancy and birth through the teen years.