The fourth edition of this unique text continues to provide pediatric clinicians with a practical guide to normal childhood development and behavior. In addition to exploring the normal stages of development, Encounters With Children 4/e addresses many of the familial and societal issues that can influence a child's behavior, such as terrorism and disasters, preschool choices, bullying, and divorce. As in past editions, chapters are logically organized to coincide with the AAP recommended schedule of health supervision visits. Additional topics include ADHD and learning disabilities, autism and other disorders of communication, and dealing with stress. Pediatricians in any stage of professional development will make the most of each well-child visit with this useful, easily digestible text. Presents a user-friendly, comprehensive course in normal development. Provides Observational, Interview, and Examination points for each age. Arranges developmental concept chapters according to the child's age, with more attention given to younger children when much of their development occurs. Offers many resources available to parents, including many found on the Internet. Addresses the mandated training requirements and fulfills Residency Requirements on normal childhood development. . Incorporates children's art throughout, for use in clinical practice. Discusses the hottest topics, including gender differences throughout development * childhood depression * children's responses to terrorism and disasters * preschool choices * divorce * and the effects of violence in a context of care and anticipatory guidance. Presents a "Heads Up" section in each chapter, alerting clinicians to certain behaviors that may be present. Offers case vignettes throughout each chapter to allow readers to better recognize and manage similar cases encountered in practice. Includes data gathering sections at the end of each chapter that demonstrate how to apply information in clinical settings by using age-appropriate interview techniques and activities. Addresses a wide range of cultural issues in practice in a cross-cultural chapter.