Cognitive Development: Thinking to Learn (A Booklet for Kansas Families)

A child’s early development builds a foundation for later learning. The purpose of this booklet is to introduce families to some of the skills, called developmental milestones, that children develop and the order in which they happen. A sampling of ideas to help develop these skills is found in the following pages. Children develop differently, even in the same family. Two children, side by side, will not necessarily have the same skills at the same time. This booklet has been compiled to provide information on thinking, reasoning, and learning skills, or cognitive development, in young children and is intended for use by Kansas families. This booklet weaves a common thread of understanding related to what cognitive development looks like in early childhood. Suggested Use of This Document • As a starting point for conversations about the development of children. • As a guide for families to help support their child’s development through suggested activities. If you have concerns about the progress of your child, you might talk with your child’s doctor, local health department, teacher, or you may request a free screening by contacting the following agencies: For children birth to three years old, contact: Kansas Department of Health, Infant Toddler Services (800) 332-6262 For children over three years old, contact: Kansas State Department of Education (800) 203-9462 Let us know if we can be of further help! Sincerely, Kansas Parent Information Resource Center (KPIRC) 866-711-6711

Filed under Parents Early Childhood and tagged with Early Learning Document early literacy cognitive ELG on July 02, 2010 #