What Happens to Developmentally Young Children?

A child is considered developmentally young if his or her overall behavior is typical of a child younger in age than that typically associated with his or her actual age. Developmentally young children do progress, as evidenced by their ever-increasing skills and abilities over time. Like all children, they grow at their own pace and in their own unique way.

Quality, age-appropriate, diverse experiences during all stages of growth can enhance and support a child’s development, but can not speed up the natural and individual growth and development process. If a child is developing normally, he or she will “catch up” with peers over time, but if there are any concerns about a child’s development, a professional should be consulted to determine whether diagnostic testing would be helpful.

Is something wrong when children are developmentally young?

Absolutely not! Some children may be chronologically or developmentally younger than their peers at school. Most of them are just that – young! Otherwise, they are normal, healthy, and often very bright children. They eventually acquire the skills and abilities they need when they are developmentally 8 ready. Some children develop fast, fast, fast; some fast, slow, fast; some slow, fast, slow; and so on. No way is right or wrong—just different.

How do I know if my child is ready for kindergarten?

What is school readiness?

What does my child's stage of development have to do with readiness for school?

If my child is old enough to start school, is there reason to wait?

What is "developmental age" exactly?

What happens to developmentally young children? You Are Here

How will I know when my child is ready to start school?

If my child is ready to learn, why isn't he ready for school?

What can I do to get my child ready?

What about children who are developmentally young but still make high grades?

Aren't children disappointed if they don't go to school with their friends or peers?

What can I do to help my child feel about about when she starts school?