Child Development Milestones in Early Childhood and the Role of Nutrition

During early childhood, incredible changes take place. Early childhood is a time of rapid growth in body, brain, and emotions. During this stage, children learn to move, communicate, think, and connect with others.

For parents, understanding these milestones - and how nutrition supports them - can help you guide your child’s healthy development.1

●      Walks steadily, begins climbing and exploring

●      Speaks first words, understands simple instructions

●      Uses hands for self-feeding and play

●      Shows curiosity, independence, and affection 

●      Runs, jumps, and enjoys physical play

●      Builds vocabulary and starts combining words into short sentences

●      Begins imaginative play and problem-solving

●      Expresses emotions more strongly and seeks independence 

●      Speaks in longer sentences, asks many questions

●      Learns to share, play cooperatively, and follow simple rules

●      Develops fine motor skills (drawing, stacking, dressing self)

●      Shows stronger imagination and creativity 

●      Gains confidence in movement: hopping, balancing, skipping

●      Recognises letters, numbers, and basic concepts for school readiness

●      Draws shapes and more detailed figures

●      Becomes more social and independent in group settings 

Children need the right nutrients at every stage of early childhood:^{3, 4}

●      Toddlers (1–3 years) - Focus on proteins, calcium, and healthy fats for bone and brain development. Offer small, frequent meals with a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

●      Preschoolers (3–5 years) - Balanced meals with lean proteins, dairy, healthy fats, and vitamins support active play and learning. Encourage trying new foods to expand tastes.

When children are picky eaters or need extra calories, nutritional supplements like PediaSure can help fill in the gaps with high quality protein, 28 essential vitamins and minerals. Please consult your healthcare professional. 

●      Introduce age-appropriate foods gradually, respecting appetite and preferences

●      Offer colourful, nutrient-rich meals in small, manageable portions

●      Encourage active play every day to build strength and coordination

●      Create positive mealtime habits - avoid pressure and make it enjoyable

●      Make the most of their ‘hungry times’. For some children this may be in the morning, for others it may be in the second half of the day.

●      Consult your paediatrician if you have concerns about weight, growth, or nutrition 

From early childhood through to starting school, each year brings new milestones in growth, learning, and independence. With proper nutrition, encouragement, and love, you can help your child build a strong foundation for a healthy future.

Remember: every child grows at their own pace. Celebrate progress, nurture curiosity, and support them with the fuel their body and brain need to flourish. 

1: Mattei, D., & Pietrobelli, A. (2019). Micronutrients and brain development. Current

Nutrition Reports, 8(2), 99–107. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13668-019-0268-z

2: Raising Children Network. (n.d.). Child development: The first 5 years. Retrieved August

14, 2025, from https://raisingchildren.net.au/newborns/development/understanding-development/developme nt-first-five-years

3: National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC). (n.d.). Australian dietary guidelines. NHMRC. Retrieved 14 August 2025 from: https://www.eatforhealth.gov.au/sites/default/files/content/n55_australian_dietary_guidelines. pdf

4: The Sydney’s Children Hospital Network NSW Government. Healthy Eating, Children and Young People https://www.schn.health.nsw.gov.au/kids-health-hub/kids-nutrition/healthy-eating-children-an d-young-people