The first five years of a child are beneficial for the development of communication, social skills and good behaviour. Here is how parents can help in the development of the child in a balanced manner. The first five years of a child are very important. The child learns a lot of things and skills during these years. It is important for parents to track their child’s development and know when they would need to see a child health professional. All children develop differently. The normal physical and social development takes place within the first five years of children and this helps them get into the shape of the adults they are going to become. Parents play a major role here and can help even a meek child become a smarter adult. Development is a term that covers everything needed when a child grows. It covers the physical growth along with progress in emotional, social and communication skills. The formation of a child’s behaviour is deeply related to the way the child learns and grows in her first few years. What Happens in First Five Years of a Child? The brain grows and develops much faster during the first few years of a child as compared to that in later years. Everything that the child sees, feels and experiences in these years forms her behaviour and entire personality. The foundation of health and learning is laid during these years. Children are always ready to learn and their brain progresses with use. So, if you are able to provide a thought-provoking and innovative environment for your child, you are definitely going to help your child grow up as a smart individual. Factors Influencing Child’s Development Although there are many factors that influence a child’s development especially during the first five years, genes and environment are the important ones and they impact each other as well. Genes Genes play a very important role in your child’s development and this decides what your child is going to be including her overall health and behaviour. One can get the information of the genes of the child by observing her parents. Surrounding The environment in which the child grows is very important in shaping up her behaviour and persona. The experience that the child has through surrounding affects her language, at forming relationships and how she would be able to handle things during tough times in life. Significance of Relationship in Development of a Child Relationships of all kinds are extremely important for growing children. The type of relationship and experiences a child has, affects areas and phases of the child’s development. It teaches her about the world and people around her and the way she should see it. The most important relationship of a child is with her parents. With the help of this relationship she comes to know whether the world is safe and secure, whether she is loved and by whom, what happens when she needs someone and many more. These experiences of the child build the foundation of her behaviour and personality and helps in the development of communication and social skills. So, as a parent one should help the child get a healthy overall environment. Importance of Play In the first five years a child learns everything while playing. The type of games and toys to which the child is exposed shapes her temperament and nature. She learns lot of things, explores the world and things around her, experiments and solves problems while playing. Spending quality time with the child and choosing sensible games helps in the right development of the child. In addition to games and relationships, health, nutrition and physical activities also play significant roles in the overall development of a child. Having healthy food, being physically active and stable environment at home helps children grow-up into impressive adults. What factors affect the behaviour of a child? How can parents bring about positive development in their children? How do relationships affect a child’s development? Discuss here.