An introduction to normal, healthy physical development for professionals who specialize in working with children. Janet McGregor, an experienced nurse teacher, guides the reader through the key changes in body systems and functions from birth through adolescence. Topics covered include: the skeletal system; the nervous system; the cardiovascular system; the respiratory system; the renal system; the digestive system; the reproduction system; the immune system; and co-ordination of the systems. Each chapter ends with a scenario which encourages the student to apply the information provided to real-life situations and a question designed to extend, through further reading, the students' knowledge and understanding of the specific system. This introductory text has been written for nurses following the child branch of the DipHE in Nursing, for student midwives, health visitors and school nurses, for nursery nurses, and any person caring for children who aims to promote their healthy development.