Infancy is from birth to 2 years. This is a critical bonding period. From birth, infants express emotions, informing parents of their level of contentment or distress. Parental responsiveness is essential as early experiences are recorded through emotions. Infants learn to illicit caregiver responses, thereby, begin to learn about the world.  

Early childhood, ages 2-6 is a period when children greatly increase their communication, and language develops according to environmental opportunities.  Creativity and play are very important. During this period, interaction and physical activity are prominent. This is an important period to provide opportunities for active listening and responding, reading, verbal communication and interactive play.  

Middle childhood, ages 6- 10 involves increased development of social bonds and friendships. Interactive play becomes more physical and responsibilities can be introduced. 

Early adolescence is from age 10-14. Puberty occurs bringing physical and emotional changes. Peer opinions and influences are great during this stage. Cognitive reasoning increases, and development occurs primarily through peer interactions and perceptions of the world. 

Late adolescence, from ages 14-18, is characterized by close friendships, and decision making becomes the focus.