Physical Development in Childhood

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and definitions related to physical development during childhood as discussed in the lecture.

Cephalocaudal

Development that occurs from the head to the feet.

Proximodistal

Development that occurs from the center of the body outward to the extremities.

Puberty

A period of rapid physical maturation involving hormonal and bodily changes that occur primarily during early adolescence.

Testosterone

A hormone that plays a key role in male physical development.

Estrogen

A hormone that plays a key role in female physical development.

Brain Growth Spurt

A period lasting from the last 3 months of prenatal development to the first 2 years of life where rapid brain growth occurs.

Myelinization

The process providing insulation for neurons and increasing the rate of transmission of electrical impulses.

Neuronal Pruning

The process where half of the neurons in an infant's brain will die and not be replaced during the first few years of life.

Hebb’s Rule

Neurons that fire together, wire together.

Neuroplasticity

The ability of neurons to change in structure and function, especially during critical periods.

Cerebral Lateralization

The specialization of the left and right hemispheres of the brain for different functions.

Development of Brain Regions

The subcortical regions develop first, followed by the motor and sensory cortex, with the frontal cortex developing last.

Neuronal Migration

The process by which neurons move to their destined locations in the brain.

Neuronal Function

Neurons have the potential for any function before becoming specialized.

Sleep-Wake Cycles

Patterns of sleeping and waking that change as children grow.

REM Sleep

A stage of sleep characterized by rapid eye movement and increased brain activity.

NREM Sleep

Non-Rapid Eye Movement sleep, which is a restful state of sleep.

Importance of ‘State’ (alertness)

It affects how the baby interacts with the environment and how adults respond to the baby.

Nutrition in Childhood

A critical factor impacting physical development and overall health.

Health Issues in Childhood

Common concerns include nutrition, accidents, injuries, and illnesses like cancer.

Infant States

Different levels of alertness and awareness that can affect interactions with the environment.