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10 Dec 2025

3 pages

Understanding Physical Development in Children

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Lauren

@lauren_b

Physical development from birth to adolescence follows a fascinating and... Show more

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1 / 3
0-3yrs
3-5yrs
5-8yrs
Age
0-3
mths
3-6
mths
6-9
mths
9-12
mths
12-18
Mths
18-24
mths
2-3
yrs
Physical Developmental Milestones
●
●
●
Lifts he

Early Childhood Development (0-8 years)

Your physical development in the first few years of life happens at an absolutely mind-blowing pace. From birth to three months, babies go from barely lifting their heads to kicking legs and waving arms with purpose.

The real excitement kicks off between 6-18 months when gross motor skills explode into action. Sitting without support leads to crawling, then cruising along furniture, and finally those magical first steps. By age two, toddlers are running, climbing stairs, and showing off on tricycles.

Meanwhile, fine motor skills develop from basic grasping to incredible precision. The journey from randomly grabbing objects to using a tripod grasp for writing shows how the brain and muscles learn to work together perfectly.

Quick Fact: By age 8, children have developed enough coordination to join sports teams and play instruments - their bodies are becoming proper little machines!

0-3yrs
3-5yrs
5-8yrs
Age
0-3
mths
3-6
mths
6-9
mths
9-12
mths
12-18
Mths
18-24
mths
2-3
yrs
Physical Developmental Milestones
●
●
●
Lifts he

Middle Childhood (8-12 years)

This age is when your body becomes a proper tool for expression and achievement. Physical stamina increases dramatically, meaning longer football matches, swimming sessions, and dance classes without getting completely knackered.

Your hands become incredibly skilled during these years. From learning musical instruments to developing lightning-fast texting abilities, fine motor skills reach near-adult levels. Handwriting transforms from wobbly letters to joined, fluent script that actually looks decent.

Sports become much more serious now because your body can handle complex movements like batting, controlled running speeds, and team coordination. This is when many young people discover their athletic talents and passions.

Remember: These skills don't just appear overnight - they build on all those earlier years of crawling, scribbling, and playground adventures!

0-3yrs
3-5yrs
5-8yrs
Age
0-3
mths
3-6
mths
6-9
mths
9-12
mths
12-18
Mths
18-24
mths
2-3
yrs
Physical Developmental Milestones
●
●
●
Lifts he

Adolescence and Puberty (12-16+ years)

Puberty is basically your body's massive renovation project, and it affects everyone differently. Girls typically start between 10-14 years, whilst boys begin slightly later at 12-16 years, though some African American girls may start as early as 9.

Your body doesn't just grow - it completely transforms. Growth spurts can leave you feeling like you've borrowed someone else's limbs overnight, which is why rest becomes so important (yes, lying in is actually necessary sometimes!).

The physical changes include developing secondary sex characteristics, increased muscle strength and endurance (especially pronounced in boys), and cardiovascular improvements. Your bones grow and strengthen, whilst your entire body composition shifts towards adult proportions.

This transformation affects your mind too. Sexual curiosity emerges naturally, and you might find yourself rebelling against authority - even refusing basic hygiene routines, though deep down you still crave structure and guidance.

Fascinating Fact: The average age for girls starting periods dropped from 15 years in 1900 to just 12.5 years by the 1990s, showing how nutrition and environment influence development!



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Where can I download the Knowunity app?

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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

 

Other

227

10 Dec 2025

3 pages

Understanding Physical Development in Children

user profile picture

Lauren

@lauren_b

Physical development from birth to adolescence follows a fascinating and predictable pattern that shapes every aspect of a young person's life. Understanding these developmental milestoneshelps you recognise what's normal at each stage and appreciate the incredible journey from helpless... Show more

0-3yrs
3-5yrs
5-8yrs
Age
0-3
mths
3-6
mths
6-9
mths
9-12
mths
12-18
Mths
18-24
mths
2-3
yrs
Physical Developmental Milestones
●
●
●
Lifts he

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Early Childhood Development (0-8 years)

Your physical development in the first few years of life happens at an absolutely mind-blowing pace. From birth to three months, babies go from barely lifting their heads to kicking legs and waving arms with purpose.

The real excitement kicks off between 6-18 months when gross motor skills explode into action. Sitting without support leads to crawling, then cruising along furniture, and finally those magical first steps. By age two, toddlers are running, climbing stairs, and showing off on tricycles.

Meanwhile, fine motor skills develop from basic grasping to incredible precision. The journey from randomly grabbing objects to using a tripod grasp for writing shows how the brain and muscles learn to work together perfectly.

Quick Fact: By age 8, children have developed enough coordination to join sports teams and play instruments - their bodies are becoming proper little machines!

0-3yrs
3-5yrs
5-8yrs
Age
0-3
mths
3-6
mths
6-9
mths
9-12
mths
12-18
Mths
18-24
mths
2-3
yrs
Physical Developmental Milestones
●
●
●
Lifts he

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Middle Childhood (8-12 years)

This age is when your body becomes a proper tool for expression and achievement. Physical stamina increases dramatically, meaning longer football matches, swimming sessions, and dance classes without getting completely knackered.

Your hands become incredibly skilled during these years. From learning musical instruments to developing lightning-fast texting abilities, fine motor skills reach near-adult levels. Handwriting transforms from wobbly letters to joined, fluent script that actually looks decent.

Sports become much more serious now because your body can handle complex movements like batting, controlled running speeds, and team coordination. This is when many young people discover their athletic talents and passions.

Remember: These skills don't just appear overnight - they build on all those earlier years of crawling, scribbling, and playground adventures!

0-3yrs
3-5yrs
5-8yrs
Age
0-3
mths
3-6
mths
6-9
mths
9-12
mths
12-18
Mths
18-24
mths
2-3
yrs
Physical Developmental Milestones
●
●
●
Lifts he

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Adolescence and Puberty (12-16+ years)

Puberty is basically your body's massive renovation project, and it affects everyone differently. Girls typically start between 10-14 years, whilst boys begin slightly later at 12-16 years, though some African American girls may start as early as 9.

Your body doesn't just grow - it completely transforms. Growth spurts can leave you feeling like you've borrowed someone else's limbs overnight, which is why rest becomes so important (yes, lying in is actually necessary sometimes!).

The physical changes include developing secondary sex characteristics, increased muscle strength and endurance (especially pronounced in boys), and cardiovascular improvements. Your bones grow and strengthen, whilst your entire body composition shifts towards adult proportions.

This transformation affects your mind too. Sexual curiosity emerges naturally, and you might find yourself rebelling against authority - even refusing basic hygiene routines, though deep down you still crave structure and guidance.

Fascinating Fact: The average age for girls starting periods dropped from 15 years in 1900 to just 12.5 years by the 1990s, showing how nutrition and environment influence development!

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

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Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user