Early Childhood Physical and Brain Development: Milestones, Influences, and Motor Skills

chapter 8

What happens to body growth after the first two years of life?

Body growth slows down.

What percentage of adult brain weight is reached by age 6?

90% of its adult weight.

What are epiphyses?

Growth centers in which cartilage hardens into bone.

What cognitive functions see rapid growth in early childhood?

Prefrontal-cortical areas devoted to executive function.

What role does the cerebellum play in early childhood development?

It aids in balance and control of body movement.

What is the function of the reticular formation?

It maintains alertness and consciousness.

Which brain structure is vital for memory and spatial understanding?

Hippocampus.

What does the amygdala process?

Novelty and emotional information.

What is the role of the corpus callosum?

It connects the two cerebral hemispheres.

How does heredity influence children's physical growth?

Children's physical size and growth rate are related to those of their biological parents and siblings.

What hormones does the pituitary gland release to induce growth?

Growth hormone (GH) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).

How does sleep affect children's growth?

Sleep contributes to body growth and cognitive performance.

What are common sleep problems in early childhood?

Nightmares and sleep disturbances.

What factors influence children's food choices?

Social environment and imitation of admired individuals.

What happens to children's appetites as they approach age 2?

Appetites decline because growth has slowed.

How can emotional climate at mealtimes impact children?

It has a powerful impact on their food choices and acceptance.

What is the relationship between maternal feeding practices and children's weight?

Pressuring children to eat can lead to underweight, while restricting foods can lead to overweight or obesity.

What is a significant risk factor for unintentional injuries in children?

Individual differences in motor skills and lack of supervision.

What can enhance motor development in preschoolers?

Engaging in various physical activities and play.

What are the major milestones of gross-motor development in early childhood?

Running, jumping, and climbing.

What are the major milestones of fine-motor development in early childhood?

Drawing, writing, and manipulating small objects.

What is the impact of childhood poverty on brain development?

It poses profound threats to all domains of development and can lead to atypical brain development.

What is the effect of screen time on children's sleep?

Increased screen time is associated with sleep disturbances.

What is the significance of the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)?

It prompts the thyroid gland to release thyroxine, essential for brain development.

What is a common behavior of preschoolers regarding food?

They often become unpredictable and picky eaters.

How does poverty affect children's access to nutrition?

Children living in poverty may lack access to sufficient high-quality food.

What has led to a dramatic decline in childhood diseases in industrialized nations?

Widespread immunization

What percentage of U.S. infants and toddlers are not fully immunized?

About 28%, with 32% among poverty-stricken children

How does a poor diet affect children's health?

It depresses the immune system, making children more susceptible to disease

What is a major cause of malnutrition in children?

Disease, which hinders physical growth and cognitive development

What therapy can prevent impairment and death from diarrhea?

Oral rehydration therapy (ORT)

What are some reasons parents may not vaccinate their children?

Belief in discredited media reports linking vaccination to autism, religious or philosophical objections

What contributes to the rise of childhood illness with child-care attendance?

Increased exposure to infections

What are unintentional injuries in childhood?

The leading cause of childhood mortality in industrialized nations

What factors influence the safety of children's behaviors?

Individual differences such as gender and temperament

What societal factors contribute to childhood injuries?

Poverty, single parenthood, low parental education, and child-care shortages

What can enhance children's retention of safety rules?

Explanations and monitoring by parents

What is the impact of respiratory infections on children?

Increases the risk of otitis media, causing hearing loss and attentiveness issues

What can prevent early otitis media in children?

Frequent screening, prompt medical intervention, and controlling infections in child-care settings

How do fine-motor skills develop in preschool children?

They take a giant leap forward, with self-help skills improving significantly

What is the typical progression of children's drawing skills?

Scribbles begin at age 2, with first representational forms at age 3, and more realistic drawings by ages 5 and 6

What cultural influences affect children's drawing skills?

In some cultures, children are taught precise steps for drawing, enhancing their skills

What is the effect of social climate on motor development?

It can enhance or dampen motor development in children

What is the recommended amount of structured and unstructured play for preschoolers?

At least 60 minutes of adult-structured play and several hours of child-directed play each day

What role do daily routines play in motor skill development?

They support the development of fine-motor skills

What is the significance of gender differences in motor skills?

Boys tend to excel in skills requiring power, while girls are better in fine-motor skills and balance

What is a common misconception parents have about children's safety knowledge?

Parents often overestimate children's understanding of safety rules

What is the relationship between motor skills and body type?

Taller, more muscular bodies tend to move more quickly and acquire skills earlier

How does the use of child safety seats vary among U.S. parents?

About 27% do not use them, and 40-75% are used incorrectly

What is the impact of teenage parenthood on childhood injuries?

It is associated with higher risks of injuries due to lack of experience and resources

What is the role of public education in immunization?

It is badly needed to increase vaccination rates and combat misinformation