ECD 102: Growth and Development I

Developmental Domain by Age

Age Group: 24-36 months
Developmental Domain: language/cognitive development

Developmental Milestones:

Is able to put nouns and verbs together in simple sentences

Almost all speech is understandable, even if correct grammar isnt used

Uses a loud and soft voice

Can recognize and name colors

Knows first and last name

Follows more complex commands from adults

Developmental Characteristics and Needs:

Enjoys chanting, repeating syllables over and over in a sing-song way

Enjoys simple finger plays (poems with simple hand movements)

Shows interest in counting

Investigates the world by handling every object and figuring out what fits where, what goes with what,
which things are similar and which are different

Can sort blocks of different color as well as similar objects

Developmental Influences:

If a child is not given the opportunity to learn how to express himself, he/she may have a hard time
developing his/her language skills

If a child is placed in front of a television all day instead of being around language, the child will develop
slowly with his/her language

If the child develops language abilities within these years, the more effectively she/he will be to think
about things

If a child is in an unstable or inconsistent environment he/she will have a hard time developing cognitively

If a child is not surrounded by art projects, sensory play or music he/she will lack some cognitive
development

The development of language has a huge impact on a childs thought process. This could effect a childs
cognitive development

If a child is not introduced to a wide variety of words in meaningful character the child will not built up its
vocabulary
Characteristics of Learning Environment:

Have interesting objects for children to examine and talk about

Magnifying glasses available around the room for children to further focus on their interests

Have books that have unusual shapes and textures around the room for the children to explore

Have simple nursery rhymes playing as well as other very simple songs such as If Youre Happy and You
Know It

Have different sets of things available so the children be start sorting. This concept is good introducing
mathematics
Adult Roles:

Do not correct mispronunciations, just model the correct way to say it in a later sentence yourself

When a child comes up with a new word, help him/her combine it with other words

Always look directly at the child when you are speaking to him

Read many fine stories and poems to them and work on making them skillful at expressing themselves

Give children play experiences where one thing fits into one space to help build their cognitive
development
Research and Theory:

Set up experiences so the toddler can discover the unknown (Dewey)

Childrens interest form the basis for curriculum planning (Dewey)

Childrens intellectual growth is affected by childrens interactions (Piaget)

Childrens cognitive development passes through stages. This age is sensorimotor (Piaget)

Materials and equipment should be accessible to the children (Montessori)

Children develop language skills and grasp new concepts as they speak to and listen to each other
Vygotsky

It is important to interact with teachers and peers in advancing childrens knowledge- Vygotsky

Observe children carefully and plan curriculum that encourages childrens emerging abilities, and pair
them up with children who can learn from each other -Vygotsky
Professional References:
Miller, K. (1985). Ages and stages: Developmental descriptions & activities, birth through eight years. Marshfield, MA: Telshare Pub.

Mooney, C. (2000). Theories of childhood: An introduction to Dewey, Montessori, Erikson, Piaget and Vygotsky. St. Paul, MN: Redleaf Press ;.
Petty, K. (2010). Developmental milestones of young children. St. Paul, MN: Redleaf Press.