Infancy, typically from birth to about two years old, is marked by rapid physical growth, dependency on caregivers, and the development of basic cognitive and emotional functions. Infants experience significant changes in weight and length, mastering reflexes, and forming early social and emotional bonds.

Key Characteristics:

• Physical Development:

  • Rapid Growth: Infants double their birth weight in the first six months and triple it by the end of the first year.

  • Motor Skill Development: Infants progress from reflexes to sitting, crawling, and walking (with support) by the end of their first year.

  • Sensory Development: Vision and hearing improve, and infants show preferences for certain sounds, faces, and patterns.

• Cognitive Development:

  • Basic Cognitive Functions: Infants begin recognizing faces, responding to sounds, and understanding cause-and-effect.

  • Early Language Development: Infants start babbling, with the first words typically emerging by the end of the first year.

  • Object Permanence: Infants develop the understanding that objects continue to exist even when they are out of sight.

• Social and Emotional Development:

  • Dependency: Infants rely entirely on caregivers for food, protection, and emotional support.

  • Emotional Expression: Infants express emotions such as crying when distressed and smiling when happy.

  • Attachment: Infants form strong emotional bonds with primary caregivers, seeking comfort and showing preferences.

  • Social Referencing: Infants look to caregivers for cues in new or unfamiliar situations.