ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the key elements of child development and the importance of using theoretical models to support children's learning and development. It examines different areas of development including language, cognition, social and emotional issues. The chapter focuses on the importance of supporting children's holistic development. The final theory of language development stresses the significance of the interplay between environmental and biological factors, sometimes called epigenesis. Child development is studied on all courses that consider children at the heart of their learning. An understanding of child development is based upon theoretical underpinning, but need to understand what people mean by theory and how theory is helpful in work with children and young people. Progress in physical growth and development makes new behaviours possible and determines potential experiences. Emotional regulation and emotional intelligence are vital skills children need to be able to function successfully in everyday life.
