Which developmental stage follows infancy?

The developmental stage that follows infancy is toddlerhood. This stage typically spans from ages 1 to 3 years and is marked by significant growth and development in various areas, including motor skills, language, social interaction, and emotional regulation. During toddlerhood, children begin to explore their environments more independently, develop a sense of autonomy, and demonstrate increasing curiosity and a desire for independence.

In this stage, toddlers often experience rapid physical growth, starting to walk and run, and they refine their fine motor skills. Language development progresses significantly, with children moving from single words to simple sentences as they engage in more complex conversations. Socially, toddlers start to engage in parallel play and sometimes cooperative play, forming relationships with peers and caregivers.

Understanding that toddlerhood follows infancy is critical for recognizing the unique developmental milestones and challenges that occur during this time, which are foundational for later stages of development. This knowledge is essential for caregivers and healthcare professionals to provide appropriate support and guidance.