Analysis of Content About Infant Development From Formal Parent Education Sources in Different World Regions

This study evaluated information shared with parents about infant development through formal sources in five countries and international organizations (i.e., regions). Consistent findings among regions were: (1) Tendency to format information as developmental milestones; (2) Sharing primarily information about motor development, but most often repeating recommendations for advancing language development; (3) Variability in specific information shared among regions and among sources within each region about the same general topics; and (4) Consensus mentioning seven behaviors representing early exploratory, mobility, and communication abilities that support learning and expression. Differences in the content shared among the regions are also described. The findings provide insight into commonalities and differences in educational practices that likely reflect more universal versus regional cultural beliefs and values.