Human development

Human development is the sequence of physical and biological changes through which a human grows and matures, from conception through adulthood and aging.

Cell differentiation: Cell differentiation is the process by which cells acquire specialized structures and functions. It turns early unspecialized cells into the distinct tissues and organs of a developing body.
Prenatal development: Prenatal development is the formation and growth of a human from conception to birth. It begins the life-course sequence and includes the formation of major organs and body systems.
Developmental milestone: A developmental milestone is an ability or behavior commonly acquired within a broad age range. Milestones provide practical reference points for tracking changes in movement, communication, and other abilities.
Neuroplasticity: Neuroplasticity is the nervous system’s capacity to change its structure or function through experience and activity. Changing neural connections support learning and adaptation across childhood and adulthood.
Endocrine system: The endocrine system is the network of glands and tissues that release hormones into the bloodstream. Hormones coordinate growth, puberty, reproduction, and other developmental transitions.
Infancy: Infancy is the early postnatal period, typically covering the first year of life. Rapid physical growth and the emergence of basic motor abilities mark this early stage.
Growth chart: A growth chart plots measurements such as height and weight against age-based reference distributions. Repeated measurements help distinguish an individual growth pattern from a single snapshot.
Critical period: A critical period is a developmental window when particular experiences have especially strong effects on a system. Some sensory and biological systems are unusually sensitive to inputs during bounded stages.
Growth plate: A growth plate is a cartilage region near the end of a growing long bone where lengthening occurs. Its activity produces much of the increase in height during childhood and adolescence.
Adolescence: Adolescence is the transitional period between childhood and adulthood, involving physical and social change. Pubertal maturation often occurs during this life stage, though its timing varies.

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