Understand Developmental Domains (E1.1.1)

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Sub Category: Child Development: Domains, Stages, and Milestones
Credential Level: Level 2 • Age Group: Infant, Toddler, Pre-K

COMPETENCY STATEMENT

Provides basic definitions of developmental domains:

  • cognitive
  • gross and fine motor
  • language
  • social and emotional

DEFINITIONS

Teachers primarily support children's learning and development across four main areas of development: thinking (cognitive), moving (motor), talking (language), and feelings and relationships (social-emotional). Knowing these areas helps teachers plan intentional activities, notice children's progress and development, and support key areas.

EXAMPLES

Understand Developmental Domains
Age Group: Infant, Toddler, Pre-K

This article introduces the four main developmental domains—cognitive, motor, language, and social-emotional—in clear, simple terms. It explains what each domain means and gives practical examples of how children grow in these areas. Teachers can use this resource to understand and describe each domain when observing and supporting children’s development.

Understand Developmental Domains
Age Group: Infant, Toddler, Pre-K

This article explains the four main areas of child development. Each domain is clearly defined with examples of how children grow and learn in these areas. This resource will help educators understand the foundational concepts of development.

WAYS TO PRACTICE