Life Stages

We separate the life stages into 8 different groups.

These are:

1. Prenatal
2. Infancy
3. Toddlerhood
4. Early Childhood 
5. Middle Childhood 
6. Adolescence
7. Early Adulthood
8. Adulthood

Click the links to learn more about each life stage.

The different ages and life stages are described in varying ways and some overlap in terms of age. 

We have separated the life stages into the following age groups:

• Prenatal - before birth
• Infancy - birth to 2 years
• Toddlerhood - 2 to 3 years old
• Early Childhood - 3 to 8 years old
• Middle Childhood - 6 to 12 years old
• Adolescence - 12 to 18 years old
• Early Adulthood - 18 to 25 years old
• Adulthood - 25 years and older

Each stage of life brings unique lessons and opportunities for growth, shaping our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. By exploring what we can learn from each phase—from prenatal development to adulthood—we gain insights that enhance our mental and emotional wellbeing.

Prenatal (Before Birth): Life’s journey begins before birth, as genetic, environmental and maternal factors play crucial roles in early development. This stage teaches us about the impact of early experiences and the significance of health and wellness practices for a strong foundation. Understanding prenatal influences helps individuals make informed choices to support early growth and wellbeing.

Infancy (Birth to 2 Years): Infancy is marked by rapid physical, emotional and cognitive development. During these early years, infants learn to trust, form attachments and communicate through expressions and sounds. This stage highlights the importance of a nurturing environment, as secure bonds promote confidence and emotional regulation, setting the stage for healthy relationships in later life.

Toddlerhood (2 to 3 Years): Toddlerhood is a time of exploration, movement and independence. Through trial and error, toddlers learn about their surroundings, develop motor skills and begin to assert their preferences. This phase teaches the value of curiosity and resilience as toddlers navigate boundaries and develop a sense of self.

Early Childhood (3 to 8 Years): In early childhood, social skills and early learning experiences flourish. Children begin to form friendships, grasp empathy and explore structured learning environments. This stage underscores the importance of early education, creativity and play, which build the social, cognitive and emotional skills that are foundational to future learning and social interactions.

Middle Childhood (6 to 12 Years): Middle childhood is when children develop a sense of competence, independence and teamwork. As they engage in school and extracurricular activities, they learn discipline, perseverance and problem-solving. This phase emphasises the importance of self-confidence and adaptability as well as the ability to balance personal and social expectations.

Adolescence (12 to 18 Years): Adolescence is a dynamic period of self-discovery, identity formation and independence. Teenagers navigate emotional changes, peer relationships and academic pressures, building resilience and self-awareness. This stage teaches the value of self-expression, decision-making and setting boundaries, all critical for managing adult responsibilities.

Early Adulthood (18 to 25 Years): Early adulthood is when individuals pursue higher education, careers and often independent living. This phase is about establishing life direction and goals, learning self-sufficiency and building professional and personal relationships. It highlights the importance of self-advocacy, resilience and the balance of independence and social connection.

Adulthood (25 Years and Older): Adulthood brings an emphasis on career, family and community involvement. The lessons in this stage revolve around balancing responsibilities, nurturing long-term relationships and finding purpose. Later in adulthood, individuals reflect on their lives, embracing legacy, lifelong learning and mentoring younger generations, which brings fulfilment and meaning.

Determining the most important life stage is challenging, as each phase offers unique lessons and influences that shape who we become. However, early childhood is often considered pivotal, as it is when core foundations for emotional, social and cognitive development are built.

During these formative years, children learn critical skills like trust, empathy and communication, and they form the attachments and self-esteem that guide them through future challenges. While growth and learning continue throughout life, a nurturing and supportive early childhood can create a solid base for resilience, wellbeing and success in later stages.

Child development is the process through which children grow, learn, and develop skills across physical, cognitive, emotional, and social areas. This natural progression begins at birth and continues into young adulthood, as children build abilities to move, think, interact, and express themselves.

In early childhood, for instance, children rapidly develop language and motor skills, forming the foundation for learning and communication. As they grow older, they gain the capacity to solve problems, understand their emotions, and build relationships.

Child development is influenced by genetics, environment, and experiences, and it plays a crucial role in shaping a child’s future health, wellbeing, and ability to navigate the world. By understanding child development, parents, carers, and professionals can better support children in reaching key developmental milestones and addressing challenges that may arise along the way.