Art of Parenting

Child development refers to the different changes that occur in children from birth to adolescence. The
changes (growth and development) occur physically, emotionally and mentally, and vary in the different
stages. In addition to learning about early childhood, pre-adolescence, and adolescence, parents will also
gain knowledge about assisting children with disabilities and as well as coping with the different behavior
styles.
The sections on Early Childhood, Pre-Adolescence, and Adolescence will aid parents in understanding
their children during each of these stages. The topics discuss the developmental changes of each stage, as
well as tips on healthy eating, proper nutrition, hygiene, and social issues that affect children as they get
older. Parents will learn to better communicate with their children and to better educate them, especially
by modeling proper behavior.
Coping with Differences and Behavior Styles is a topic that focuses on the four behavior styles that
human beings associate themselves with. Although people can shift their behaviors in different settings,
everyone has a predominant style that makes them who they are. Helping parents discover their personal
behavior style as well as their children’s style can be a significant factor in improving communication.
Understanding More about Disabilities is another topic found in this theme which gives parents tips and
suggestions to better assist their children who may have any form of disability – whether it is physical,
cognitive, or emotional.
The topics found in Theme 1 were created to assist parents through the journey with their children. This
theme is important in understanding children as they develop and grow into adulthood. After learning
about Child Development, parents will better appreciate their roles as caregivers and educators. They
will also learn new forms of communication that can help them to strengthen their relationship with their
children as they grow and develop.