From birth to age 5, your child’s brain and body go through enormous changes. This rapid development means that almost every day can bring something new. It’s a time for significant changes in how children behave, communicate, learn, and move. Some of these changes may seem triumphant — like first steps — while others can be trying. Think “terrible twos.” During this time, you may become concerned about your child’s mental health, including their social, emotional, and behavioral development.
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The world expands for your child during their school-age years. They have new social, cognitive, emotional, and behavioral health territory to explore. They will master some things and become more independent. But they — and you — face new challenges and worries. Challenges during the school-age years include experiencing setbacks, disappointments, and unfairness in school, sports, hobbies, and friendships. It’s an important time to help your child's development. Encourage them to explore a wide variety of interests and form friendships. This helps build confidence so they make good choices for themselves.
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The teen years are a complex mix of physical, emotional, social, and mental health changes, and puberty brings hormonal changes. Teens can have more complex thoughts, but their brain development largely focuses on social experiences and processes. Though they are becoming more independent, they are also facing more peer influence and peer pressure.
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Young adults experience personal growth and significant life changes while they make more of their own decisions. They might be starting college or a career, moving out, managing money, and developing serious relationships. All the while, they are working to become more independent and self-reliant. The transitions and decisions that come with this life stage can feel challenging, stressful, and even overwhelming. They can also affect behavioral health.
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