What does physical development refer to in the context of child growth?

Physical development in the context of child growth specifically refers to the changes and advancements in a child's body and physical abilities. This includes the increase in height and weight, changes in body composition, and the maturation of internal systems such as the circulatory, muscular, and skeletal systems. It encompasses the development of gross and fine motor skills, which are crucial for achieving various physical tasks and overall health. By focusing on these aspects, it becomes clear that physical development is fundamentally linked to the biological and physiological changes that occur as a child grows. This differentiation is essential to understand how physical development plays a critical role alongside other dimensions of child development, such as emotional or social growth, which do not pertain directly to physical changes or capabilities.