Stage of development
The likely nature of injury type and setting are associated with a child's stage of development. Early childhood is characterised by a rapid increase in physical growth and cognitive functioning during which children become more mobile, independent and keen to explore their immediate environment. For pre-school children, home accidents, such as burns, scalds and poisonings, are more prevalent since the home is where they spend most of their time.
As children become older and greater independence allows them to range further from home, the risk of outdoor injury increases. The road environment presents a particular hazard, with children at risk as pedestrians, cyclists and subsequently as young drivers.