How Children Develop: Prenatal Development

These flashcards cover essential concepts of prenatal development, including stages, critical processes, and maternal influences.

What are the three primary stages of prenatal development?

Germinal Period, Embryonic Period, Fetal Period.

What is the duration of the Germinal Period?

From fertilization to implantation.

What does the Embryonic Period involve?

Development of the embryo from 12 days to 7-8 weeks.

What are the three layers formed during the Embryonic Period?

Ectoderm, Mesoderm, Endoderm.

What crucial development occurs in the Fetal Period?

Significant growth and development of organs and systems.

How do hormones influence prenatal development?

They play a significant role in processes such as sexual differentiation.

What potential effect does exposure to teratogens have?

They can cause abnormalities and developmental issues in the fetus.

What is Fetal Alcohol Syndrome?

A condition resulting from alcohol exposure during pregnancy, leading to neurodevelopmental disorders.

How does maternal nutrition impact prenatal development?

Malnutrition can lead to growth impairment and cognitive issues in the fetus.

What is meant by 'sensitive periods' in prenatal development?

Certain times when the developing fetus is particularly vulnerable to environmental factors.

What is meant by 'experience expectant learning' during fetal development?

Learning processes that rely on typical experiences the fetus encounters in the womb.

What effects occur from maternal emotional state during pregnancy?

High stress can lead to behavioral and cognitive issues in children.

What is a major characteristic of the Fetal Period by 28 weeks?

The fetus is capable of survival outside the womb due to organ development.

What happens during the Germinal Period regarding the zygote?

Rapid cell division occurs, and the zygote becomes a blastula.

Why is the prenatal period significant for development of infants?

Many developmental processes begin before birth and affect life post-birth.