HDFS Ch. 8 - Physical Development in Preschool

typical changes in body shape and structure in first years of life

grow about 3 inches/year, gain 4-5lbs/year

gross motor skills

involve large muscle use in locomotion

gross motor skills milestones

2 years = running well, walking up stairs (2 ft. at time) 3 years = jumps from bottom step, catches bounced ball, 4 years = turn sharp corners when running, throws ball overhand, 5 years = runs lightly on toes, climbs actively and skillfully

fine motor skills

involve small muscles used in manipulation and coordination

fine motor skills milestones

drawing, writing letters and words

percentile

child’s relative position to other children of the same age and gender.

how to interpret percentile

shows what percentage of children fall below that child’s measurement of height and weight

when does handedness develop

in infancy

relation between physical development and emotional expression

as children grow, they gain more physical control, in which they can better express their emotions beyond crying

how long does it take for brain to develop

2+ decades

when do our brains develop the most quickly

during childhood

how much sleep does a preschooler need

11-13 hours

how environment relates to food choices

children’s food choices are influenced by environment

salt and sugar intake in the U.S.

children often fed too much salt and sugar

what can parents do to support children’s nutrition

let them be autonomous eaters, respect their food choices, allow them to serve themselves and eat when hungry, don’t force eating when they are finished

how can parents support physical health and well-being

be a role model

most common accident for preschoolers

motor vehicle accidents

how do gender and economic resources relate to likelihood of accident

boys > girls to incur accidental injuries at all ages and socioeconomic groups

most common form of abuse

neglect

signs of abuse

excessive hunger, poor hygeine, poor relationships with peers

how does abuse affect development

fewer synaptic connections in the brain

resillience

ability to adapt well to difficult/challenging life experiences

what leads to resillience

social support, parental resilience can protect individuals