9.3 Life Stages and Healthy Development

Notes

Humans grow and change throughout life. Needs shift at each stage.

• Infancy and early childhood: rapid growth, learning to walk and talk, and attachment to caregivers.
• Middle childhood: learning skills in school, friendships and independence.
• Adolescence: puberty, identity, and increased independence.
• Adulthood: work, family, community roles and maintaining health.
• Older adulthood: slower recovery, more chronic conditions, need for social connection and safe housing. Many older adults stay active and independent.
• Healthy development has several areas: physical, intellectual, emotional and social.
• Habits built in adolescence, such as activity and avoiding tobacco, can last into adulthood.
• Support from family, schools and communities helps people at every stage.