While all children develop differently according to their living environment, there are patterns which help parents to know what milestones they might expect their children to reach - physically, emotionally, socially, and cognitively - at different ages and stages. This book provides an overview of early childhood development from birth to eight years old. In addition to developmental guidelines, Your Child from Birth to Eight offers ideas about suitable activities and toys for children as they grow. Tips and advice are provided on issues having to do with behavior, emotions, temperament, toilet training, new siblings, sexual development, and starting school. The book addresses physical development, social and emotional development, speech and language, thinking and learning, sleep, play, and specific behaviors as they pertain to each developmental stage. It also includes a list of resources for more in-depth reading. Following the success of its predecessor, this fully revised and updated edition contains new research-based information, provides insights into what is happening to children, and examines why they may do what they do. As an invaluable resource for parents and childcare providers, Your Child from Birth to Eight encapsulates the wisdom of other parents who 'have been there' and of early childhood professionals with experience over many years.