The assessments made by individuals raising children between the ages of one and three often center around developmental milestones. This includes comparing their child’s progress in areas such as language acquisition, motor skills (e.g., walking, grasping), and social-emotional development to that of other children of similar age. For instance, a parent might observe that their child speaks fewer words than a peer or is less adept at climbing playground equipment.
Such evaluations are a natural part of the parenting experience. Understanding where a child stands relative to established norms can help parents identify potential developmental delays, allowing for early intervention if necessary. Historically, parental comparisons have relied on anecdotal observations, informal social networks, and limited access to standardized developmental information. Today, parents have access to a wider array of resources, including online communities, pediatricians, and formal developmental screenings.
