Early years (0-5) development checks
Children learn and develop more from birth to 5 years old than at any other time in their lives. All children are unique and will develop at different rates and in different ways. There are recognised development milestones in a child’s life that help us to understand if they are growing well and developing as expected in their physical, social and emotional skills. Health Visitors offer regular development checks that will help you to understand where your child is at in their age and stage of development and how you can help them to continue to grow and learn.
The NHS website outlines everything that you need to know about your baby's health and development reviews .
If you are worried about your child’s development please contact your health visitor (for under-fives) or speak to your health care provider or your child’s school or nursery.
Top Tips for helping your child to develop and grow
- Don’t be afraid to take it slow
- Chat back and forth together
- Experience little moments together
- Be curious together
- Be creative together
Herefordshire Health Visiting Service have specialist training in children's development.
Herefordshire Children's Centres offer parenting, health and school readiness support and services.
National Support
Bookstart for families (part of the BookTrust) helps guide you on your child's reading journey from 0-5 years.
NHS Start for Life has lots of ideas, tips and activities to enjoy with your little one.
The Education Hub offer 5 easy ways to boost your child's development.
UNICEF Parenting offer easy and effective science backed tips to nurture your child's development.