Key Concepts in Child Development and Brain Injury

These flashcards summarize key vocabulary terms and definitions related to child development, prenatal exposure, and traumatic brain injury.

Enriched Environment

Only about 15% of licensed day care centers provide an environment that meets the intellectual and emotional needs of children.

Prenatal Marijuana Exposure

15-20% of pregnant women use marijuana daily.

Folic Acid Consumption

Only about 33% of mothers consume adequate amounts of folic acid before and during gestation.

Lead Exposure in Children

98% of children have lead levels below 3.5 mcg/dl.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

The leading cause of disability and death in children and adolescents in the U.S.

Average Lead Levels

The late 1970’s average lead level was 16 mcg/DL; by 2010, it dropped to 1 mcg/dL.

CTE (Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy)

A progressive degenerative disease linked to repeated head impacts, often seen in athletes.

Signs of Concussion

Physical, cognitive, emotional changes, including headaches, confusion, irritability, and sleep-related issues.

BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor)

A protein that helps keep brain cells healthy; decreases as lead levels rise.

THC in Breast Milk

Can be found in breast milk up to six days after marijuana use.

Impact of Lead on IQ

As blood lead levels increase, IQ points can be reduced significantly.

Recommendations for Concussion Recovery

Minimize the number of concussions and allow time for recovery before returning to activity.