This document defines key terms related to human growth and development such as development, growth, and maturation. It then provides information on basic principles of growth and development including that development follows an orderly sequence, rates vary between individuals, and early development is more critical. The document also discusses prenatal influences and the nature vs nurture debate. It outlines theories of cognitive, social, emotional, and psychosexual development from theorists such as Piaget and Freud. Key developmental milestones from infancy through childhood are also summarized.