This research aims to determine the developmental characteristics of children aged 1-5 years. Early childhood is a very fundamental period for a child's growth and development, where during this period the development process runs rapidly. During this period, children are ready to carry out various activities to understand and master their environment and this is the golden period. This article is a theoretical study of several references regarding the developmental characteristics of children aged 1-5 years. The aim of this article is to increase the insight and understanding of teachers and parents about how children aged 1-5 years really are. By understanding the characteristics early childhood development, teachers and parents do not impose personal will on children because it will greatly influence their development in the future.