3.1 early childhood physical development

how much kids grow in early childhood

2-3 inches in height and ~5lbs in weight a year

body shape in early childhood

baby fat lost, become slimmer and taller with more defined facial features

average weight/height at age 5

~43inches ~40lbs

when potty training typically completed 

varies, often around 2-3

brain sized

age 2: ~80%

age 6: ~95%

major process that shapes brain

synaptic pruning, removing unused connections and strengthening important ones

brain areas especially developing 

language areas

prefrontal cortex 

low SES and brain development

lower SES linked to smaller hippocamus and amaygdala

why SES is considered a distal influence

affects proximal factors like nutrition, prenatal care, and learning, which all directly impact brain growth

executive functions 

skills for deliberate control of thoughts, actions, and emotions 

big 3 executive functions

working memory, inhibition, cognitive flexibility (task-shifting)

support gross motor development

growth, muscle strength, coordination, brain maturity, practice + motivation

when children begin walking efficiently 

2-2.5 years 

gross motor milestones 2-3

flat food run, leap, straight arm throw, simple kick

gross motor milestones 3-4

hops, jump rope, early gallop

gross motor milestones 4-5

balance beam, hops, coordinated jumps

gross motor milestones 5-6

mature run, skipping, strong throw and kick 

when fine motor skills develop rapidly

~ 2.5-5 years

grip progres

power grip → tripod grip (~6yr)

drawing progression

scribbles → shapes → combining shapes → tadpole person → detailed figures 

when kids write their own name

around 4-5

handedness

solidifies around 6

~88% right handed

influenced by genes and environment

sleep needs 

age 1-2: 12-14 hours

common issues: bedtime stalling, nightmares, night terrors 

food preference patterns

prefer sugar, salt, and fat

guided by familiarity and exposure

food insecurity

lack of consistent access to nutritious food

food insecurity links 

poorer health, academics, and higher obesity risk

leading cause of death under 5

unintentional injury

why young kids need safety reminders

impulse control + rule memory is still developing

second hand smoke 

respiratory issues, ear infections, SIDS

lead exposure 

permanent brain damage, lower IQ, attention, and behavior issues 

risk worsened by poverty and poor nutrition