The slow maturation of human children—often viewed as burdensome in modern parenting—is, in fact, a remarkable evolutionary achievement. Unlike other species, humans remain biologically immature and ...

"Human children grow at a uniquely slow pace by comparison with other mammals. When and where did this schedule evolve? Have technological advances, farming and cities had any effect upon it?

If you have spent time with an infant, you might recognize the scene: A child is wailing, inconsolable, and you, the parent, have to go to the bathroom. Or eat. Or attend to a pot that’s boiling over.