Explore themes from the Early Years Evidence Store with our 3-2-1 Quick Reads Series!
Physical Development
Physical development in the early years refers to the growth of the body and brain from birth through early childhood. This includes changes in body size, muscle strength, balance, co-ordination, sensory development, and skills such as movement and handling.
Physical development is a foundational area that enables children to engage with the world around them and lays the building blocks for later physical capabilities and health.
Children’s physical development is typically rapid in the early years and is influenced by the adults and peers around them.
This theme looks at what adults can do to support physical development as part of young children’s education. Educators need to consider the stage and age of the children when deciding how to apply the approaches below due to the speed of physical development within this age range.