The expectations for reading, writing and math (core subjects) change with the growth of the child. All areas of development impact a child’s ability to achieve academic milestones. If a child has difficult with visual perceptual skills, learning to read can be impacted. Falling behind in basic reading skills then effects the ability to learn concepts in other academic areas such as science and social studies. Children who have poor social skills or sensory processing disorders can become anxious and withdrawn in school. They spend time and energy trying to figure out what is expected of them socially, or trying to make their bodies feel safe and good, rather than on learning academic material.

The Developmental Milestones Guide provides information cognitive, language, social, motor, visual perception and sensory motor areas of development that can impact academic performance. Now included in the newly expanded edition is a section on academic development, outlining the goals common for every age group.