Explain the difference between sequence of development and rate of development and why the difference is important

Every child is unique and will develop at their own rate. Some children will usually follow the same pattern of development but the age that they reach them will depend on each child. Milestone of development is given as a broad average of when they may be expected to reach a particular stage. In particular classes or year groups you may notice some children may stand out because they have reached milestones in advance of or later than other children. If some children grow quicker than their peers this may affect their behaviour. For example, children in their last two years of primary school may became taller and develop some of the first sign of puberty. Girls in particular can became much taller than boys and this can put pressure on them to behave differently. There may need to be additional provision made in this instance. For example- when getting changed for PE, there may also be pupils who are very tall or very small for their age and this can sometimes affect how they are treat by their peers. This can also affect social and emotional development. The patterns of development discussed here should therefore be seen as a guide to help you to draw up an overall idea of these different stages.
Development is often divided into different areas, it is important to remember that they are interconnected and link with one another. Developing physically and refining these physical skills this can affect the child’s ability of been independent, socialise and become confidence.
You have to think really carefully when panning any activities which you are going to carry out with the children and young people, you shouldn't just think in terms of specific areas, but also in terms of the broader picture. Many activities the children will become interested and encourage them to develop skills in different areas.

Explain how children and young people's development is influenced by a range of PERSONAL factors

Health: If pupils suffer from poor health or a physical disability in impairment this can have an affect on their development. If a child has a medical condition or impairment they maybe less able to take part in some activities than other children. This can affect physical development and may restrict social activities. Emotional development can also be affect depending on their awareness of their needs and the extent to which they are affected. It is very important that adults in the school are well aware of how pupils may be affected by these kinds of conditions and circumstances, so that we can support them and ensure that children are included as far as possible.

Learning difficulties: A with learning difficulties will need to be encouraged to develop in all areas to be able to do their best of their ability. If you are supporting a child with learning difficulties, you will have support from other professionals as to how manage their needs while encouraging their development.

Explain how children and young people's development is influenced by a range of external factors.

Pupils' background and family environment: Children will come from a range of different environment, cultures and circumstance. Some families can go through significant changes whilst the children are still at school, which the school may not be aware of. These may include parents break-up or introduction them to a new partner, loss of a family member, illness, moving houses or leaving the country. All of these can have affect on children's emotional or intellectual development, also children's behaviour and ability to learn as a result.
Poverty and deprivation: This is likely to have a significant effect on children's development. Statistics show that children who come from deprived backgrounds are less likely to thrive and achieve well in school, as parents will find it more difficult to manage their children's