Decide on one of the following developmental stages:
infant
toddler
elementary
middle
high school years
Then, research and record your responses to the following:
Identify the developmental stage you have chosen to research and reflect on.
What are the major responsibilities of the parent during this phase? For example, safety to plan for, supervision, and health priorities.
What does parental or caregiver nurturing look like in this phase of life? For example, teenagers may need someone who listens and offers support. But toddlers need immediate feedback to avoid danger, learn about their world, etc.
What support will the parents or caregiver need during this phase of life? How can they lean on extended family? What type of support would be helpful? For example, parents of babies need help to sleep, and parents of school-aged children might need help with transportation.
Part Two: Reflection
Record your responses to the following reflection questions:
What challenges will a parent face during this developmental stage?
Do you feel the developmental stage you chose is more or less difficult than other stages? Why do you think this way?
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to a parent of a child in the stage you chose?
