Physical DevelopmentPhysical DevelopmentThe physical development of a child from birth to age 6, like the cognitive development, is quite dramatic. The child gradually develops more control over their body, increasing things like coordination and motor skills. At the same time, the child is growing bigger and stronger as aresult of proper nutrition and medical attention. The folowing section attempts to highlight some of the characteristics which would be evident in a physically well0-developed six-year-old and some factors which contribute to that development. These lists are not meant to be all-inclusive, but rather to highlight some key points.
Some characteristics which would be evident in a well developed six year old in the physical domain are included int eh following list:
 | Motor skills are refined and controlled (e.g., coloring in the lines) |
| Eye-hand coordination improves with time |
| Dominate side has emerged |
| Able to skip, balance, bounce and catch a ball |
| Able to use scissors |
| Immunization is up to date |
| Appropriate height and weight |
| Evidence of good dental hygiene |
| Vision is clear or corrected |
| Disease free |
| General cleanliness |
| Adequate nutrition |
| Neurologically intact |
Some factors which contribute to a child's physical developmnet include the following:
| Prenatal care is vital to sustain the child's brain |
| Mother's nutrition and health |
| No drugs or alcohol |
| Proprer medical care through delivery |
| Breastfeeding - promotes brain development |
| Child's nutrition in general |
| Absence of disease, trauma, abuse |
| Appropriate sleep and rest cycles |
| Clean, safe environment to live in |
The indicators above were identified by the Success By 6 Adhoc Task Force Report on Child Development: Indicators of Success and some Contributing Factors.
