Child explores the world of young children aged from 2 to 5 as they emerge from toddlerdom and start out on the long road to independence. These early years are a time when their capacity for learning and sheer exuberance for life are unparalleled and this insightful guide contains a wealth of information about all aspects of development. Age-by-stage profiles describe growth patterns, social and emotional behavior, physical and cognitive skills. Gestures and body language are interpreted to guide the reader to a better understanding of personality and what young children are thinking and feeling. Enchanting photographs capture typical actions and reactions to everyday experiences.