Physical Development

Cell Birth

The process that begins at 7 weeks and slows down around 20 weeks, where stem cells are formed in the neural tube.

Apoptosis

The process of cell death, where the brain eliminates unnecessary cells.

Synaptic Pruning

The removal of excess synapses that are not strong, allowing the brain to adapt to its environment.

Cell Differentiation

The process where a cell travels to its location and 'turns into' what it is supposed to be, influenced by environmental signals and genes.

Cell Maturation

The process that begins around the 20th week and continues after birth, resulting in the formation of dendrites and axons.

Dendritic Arborization

The growth of branches in the dendrite that allows synapses to be formed.

Cell Migration

The process of cells traveling to their appropriate location guided by radial glial cells.

Dendrites

Extensions of nerve cells that promote the electrochemical stimulation received from other neural cells.

Fine Motor Skills

Smaller actions that occur in the wrists, hands, fingers, feet, and toes.

Functional Plasticity

The brain's ability to move functions from a damaged area to other undamaged areas.

Gestation

The process or period of developing inside the womb, from conception to birth.

Gross Motor Skills

Larger movements that the child makes with their arms, legs, feet, and entire body.

Limbic System

A brain area that is emotional and impulsive, developing quicker during adolescence.

Myelogenesis

The stage of brain development that starts in the prenatal stage and continues throughout life, forming myelin on axons.

Physical Development

The process that begins in infancy and continues into late adolescence, focusing on body control, muscles, and physical coordination.

Pituitary Gland

An endocrine gland connected to the hypothalamus that controls sexual development, promotes growth, and responds to stress.

Reciprocal Interweaving

A developmental process where a child alternates hand use before developing a preference for one hand.

Structural Plasticity

The brain's ability to change its physical structure as a result of learning.

Synaptogenesis

The formation of synapses between neurons in the nervous system.