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Figure 5.1 Early childhood is a time of extensive physical and cognitive growth. The awkwardness of toddlerhood gives way to smooth physical movement. An explosion of words arrives that expands thinking as well as socioemotional growth. (credit: modification of work “A Spring in your camp, CYTP members join Spring Camp 140319-M-TH981-002” by Kristen Wong, United States Marine Corps/Wikimedia Commons, Public Domain)

Chapter Outline

5.1 Physical Health and Growth in Early Childhood

5.2 Motor Development and Physical Skills in Early Childhood

5.3 Cognition in Early Childhood

5.4 Language in Early Childhood

5.5 Play in Early Childhood

Kai and Taylor want the best for their child, always striving to make sure Maxie is stimulated and has the best resources to enhance both physical and cognitive development. At five years old, Maxie attends kindergarten, plays organized soccer, practices piano, and has plenty of coloring sheets and educational games at home to explore. Kai and Taylor like eating a wide variety of foods, and they offer Maxie different tastes, textures, and flavors to encourage a preference for healthy options.

Kai and Taylor are concerned they may be overscheduling Maxie. Yet they also worry that they may not be offering enough stimulation because they are both at work until dinnertime. They recognize that many other upper-middle class parents struggle with these same issues, and they get differing opinions from their friends. They often find themselves wondering:

• Do all young children prefer to eat pizza, nuggets, and peanut butter sandwiches, or is Maxie’s preference for these items a cause for concern?
• When is the best time to teach Maxie a second language?
• Which does Maxie need more right now—free play or structured activities?
• Is screentime inherently bad for Maxie, or could it be beneficial?

This chapter provides scientific and practical answers to these types of questions and others about physical and cognitive development in early childhood.