prenatal development

What do the “ladders” in the game represent in prenatal development?

Positive factors that advance fetal development.

What do the “chutes” represent?

Negative factors that hinder fetal development.

What teratogen can destroy neurons when it crosses the placenta?

Alcohol.

During which trimester is alcohol particularly harmful for behavior and emotional regulation?

The first three months.

What behavioral effects can prenatal alcohol exposure cause?

Irritability, poor emotion regulation, and reduced sociability.

What social “ladder” involves stimulating communication development?

Talking or singing to the fetus.

How does talking or singing to a fetus support language development?

It enhances early communication and language pathways.

What social benefit comes from a mother reacting to fetal movements?

It supports early understanding of social interaction and responsiveness.

Which nutrients act as cognitive “ladders”?

Omega-3s, iron, and choline.

What happens when teratogens like heroin, alcohol, nicotine, and cannabis cross the placenta?

They disrupt neuronal proliferation and synapse formation.

Why are drugs considered cognitive “chutes”?

They cause abnormalities in brain structures and function.

How long does the prenatal period last?

From conception to birth (about nine months).

Why are prenatal vitamins important for physical development?

They provide necessary building blocks for organ formation.

How does maternal exercise act as a ladder?

It improves placental function and nutrient/oxygen delivery.

Why can older maternal age be considered a “chute”?

It is associated with higher fetal complication risks.

What is a teratogen?

Any agent that interferes with fetal development and causes defects.

What birth defects is thalidomide known to cause?

Limb deformities, organ damage, and eye/ear abnormalities.

During which weeks is the fetal heart most vulnerable?

Weeks 3–10.

What physical risks accompany a poor maternal diet?

Premature birth, low birth weight, and later-life health problems.

What condition can be caused by little to no exercise and is dangerous for pregnancy?

Preeclampsia.

What does landing on a “chute” in the analogy mean for fetal physical development?

It represents setbacks or developmental delays.