What developmental stage comes after infancy?

The developmental stage that follows infancy is toddlerhood. This phase typically starts around 1 year of age and lasts until approximately 3 years of age. During this time, children experience significant growth in physical abilities, language, social skills, and cognitive development.

Infancy is characterized by rapid growth and development, including the establishment of basic motor functions and the beginnings of social interaction. As infants transition into toddlers, they begin to walk, explore their environment more actively, and assert their independence, demonstrating a new level of growth and developmental milestones.

The other stages mentioned, such as neonate, child, and adolescent, do not directly follow infancy. Neonate refers specifically to the first 28 days of life and precedes infancy. The term child encompasses a broader range, including both toddlers and children in early childhood. Adolescent denotes a stage that comes significantly later, typically starting around the age of 12, when individuals enter puberty and undergo further development both physically and emotionally.