Child Development

What are some things you currently know or believe about child development? 
I believe the most important time for development is during early childhood (0-13). It is during that time that they learn not only the crucial basics (walking, talking, etc.) bu also whether they can trust people, how to interact with others, and how to develop healthy lifestyle habits. This becomes increasingly difficult to learn during adolescence, or worse, by oneself during adulthood.

What are the important things to look at? Cognition, social relationships, emotional development, or other things? 
I think those three are extremely important. Anyone lacking in any of those areas will experience difficulty progressing through their education. Cognition is obviously important; however, interpersonal and emotional development are also essential. A child who has healthy relationship and interpersonal skills can better understand the value of teamwork and the power of group effort; someone who is emotionally healthy can better adapt to tough or trying situations and deal with them promptly and effectively.

Do you favor a view of predictable stages and sequences? Or one of more variation and diversity among children? 
I do not believe there is a one-size-fits-all model for educational psychology and child development. Sure, we can generalize on a day-to-day basis, but there will always be a unique individual for whom your methods of teaching and modeling may need some tweaking or major alteration of some sort.

What is your set of beliefs about child development?
I suppose, to put it simply, my philosophy on child development would be this: they embarking on a journey in an unfamiliar territory, and they are temporarily putting their trust in you to be their guide. Find out where they are trying to go, and do your best to get them on the best path.