Introduction to Growth and Development

Physical growth is an increase in size. Development is growth in function and capability. Both processes depend on genetic, nutritional, and environmental factors.

When describing physical and emotional development in children, it is useful to define certain age-based groups (1):

• Neonate (newborn): Birth to 1 month

• Infant: 1 month to 1 year

• Young child: 1 year through 4 years

• Older child: 5 years through 10 years

• Adolescent: 11 years through 21 years