Topic 2: PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT

What are the three developmental domains?

Physical, Cognitive, Social-Emotional

What is physical development?

Systematic changes in the body and brain, including growth, motor skills, and health-related behaviours.

What are motor skills?

Skills involving movement and control of the body.

What are fine motor skills?

Small movements using hands/fingers (e.g. writing, drawing, holding objects).

What are gross motor skills?

Large body movements (e.g. running, jumping, climbing).

What does cognitive development include?

Learning, Reasoning, Thinking, Memory, Language, Conceptual understanding.

What is social-emotional development?

Changes in emotions, relationships, and self-understanding.

What does social-emotional development include?

Emotions, Self-concept & self-image, Relationships, Moral development.

What are the three major factors influencing development?

Biology (genetics), Environment, Interactions/experiences.

What is universality vs diversity?

Universality = similar patterns for most children; Diversity = different rates and ways of developing.

Quantitative vs qualitative change?

Quantitative = change in amount/size; Qualitative = change in type/structure (new skills).

What does 'development is variable' mean?

Development is shaped by relationships and interactions with others.

What is development influenced by context?

Culture, Environment, Family, Education.

What are the stages of development?

Infancy (0–2 years), Early childhood (3–7 years), Adolescence (12–18 years).

What happens in infancy?

Fastest physical development, Rapid brain development, Basic motor skills develop, Reflexes → movement.

What happens in early childhood?

Physical growth slows, Strength increases, Coordination improves, Better motor skills.

What happens in middle childhood?

Increased strength, Flexibility, Coordination, More complex movement skills.

What happens in adolescence?

Puberty, Rapid height/weight changes, Sexual maturity.

Differences between boys and girls in adolescence?

Girls: earlier growth, breast development, menstruation; Boys: later growth, deeper voice, facial hair.

What environmental factors influence physical development?

Poverty, Access to healthcare, Nutrition, Living conditions.

What affects physical health in children?

Diet, Physical activity, Weight, Blood pressure, Vision, Hearing.

How much physical activity should children get?

At least 60 minutes per day.

What are examples of physical activities?

Dance, Sports, Outdoor play.

What do studies show about boys vs girls physical activity?

Boys are more likely to meet activity guidelines; Girls participate less in moderate-vigorous activity.

What does 'development is cumulative' mean?

New skills build on previous learning.

What are developmental cascades?

Development in one area affects other areas.

What does 'development is a lifelong process' mean?

Development continues across the entire lifespan.

Why do children develop differently?

Because of: Genetics, Environment, Experiences.

What are multiple pathways of development?

There is no single path — children can reach the same outcome in different ways.

What is nature vs nurture?

Nature = genetics; Nurture = environment.

What is epigenetics?

The interaction between genes and environment (environment can turn genes on/off).

How does physical activity support development?

Improves brain function & concentration, Supports social skills (teamwork), Improves emotional wellbeing, Builds confidence.

Are children passive or active in development?

Active — they explore, interact, and shape their own learning.

What shapes development overall?

The interaction of: Genetics, Environment, Experiences.