Early child development

About early child development

The early years are very important for healthy development as your child’s brain and body develop at a fast pace.

You can support your child’s health and development by providing:

• appropriate nutrition
• a safe environment
• nurturing relationships

Healthy babies and toddlers are more likely to stay healthy through their childhood, teen and adult years.

Monitoring your child’s development

Every child is unique, but developmental milestones tell us at what age most children can develop a certain skill.

Getting to know your child’s interests, skills and strengths can help you support their development.

Supporting healthy growth and development

There are many things you can do to support your child’s growth and development. These free online resources can be especially helpful to:

• learn about milestones for communication and physical, cognitive and social-emotional development
• monitor and support your child’s development

If you are concerned about your child

It’s normal to have questions about your child’s development. Reach out and talk to someone if you have questions about developmental milestones or concerns about your child’s progress.

As a first step, you can connect with your:

• family doctor or other health care provider
• local SmartStart Hub
• local EarlyON Family and Child Centre

Taking action early can help your child get the support they need.

Family doctors and other health care providers

Family doctors and health care providers are a good starting point for any concerns you might have about your child’s health or development.

They are often the first to notice any issues and can provide early identification, guidance and support. They can also connect you with the right resources and services.

Well-baby visits

Well-baby visits allow you to discuss your child’s development with a health care provider.

You can schedule an Enhanced 18-month Well-Baby Visit with your primary care provider when your child is 18 months old. This visit includes time to ask questions about your child’s development.

SmartStart Hubs

SmartStart Hubs are an entry point to child development services. Their staff will:

• talk with you about your concerns
• help you understand what assessments and supports your child may need and how to access them

You can contact your local Children’s Treatment Centre at any time to connect with the SmartStart Hub in your community. You do not need a referral.

EarlyON Child and Family Centres

EarlyON Child and Family Centres offer free, high-quality programs to all families and children from birth to 6 years old. You do not need a referral.

Visit your local EarlyON centre to:

• get advice from early childhood development professionals
• find out about other family services in your community
• connect with other families with young children

Many centres are open weekdays, evenings and weekends to fit the needs of families.

Early child development programs

You can also connect with services and support by reaching out to our free early child development programs.

You can contact these programs directly — you do not need a referral.

Online resources

These resources offer ideas and practical tips for supporting your child’s growth and development. They can be especially helpful while you are waiting for services.

You may notice some differences in the information each resource provides, because each one has its own focus.

Early Years Check-In

The Early Years Check-In is a short survey for parents and guardians of children from 18 months to 6 years. You can use it to:

• help identify concerns about your child’s development
• get free activities to support your child’s needs

Indigenous resources

Monitoring your child’s development

Supporting your child’s growth and development