Chapter 7 Infant Motor Development Power Point

Teratogens

Any agent that can cause defects or deformities to the fetus

Can impact motor development once the child is born

Include: Illegal/legal drugs, certain prescription medications, tobacco, alcohol

Primitive Reflexes (Brain and spinal cord)

Protection and survival

These involuntary reflexes serve their purpose and should disappear (or integrate) after 3 months. If they do not disappear, there may be a neurological delay, which can include motor delay

Postural Reflexes

Assist with future locomotion (movement)

Examples are the parachute and stepping reflex

These reflexes serve as practice for later movement milestones. Most reflexes disappear (or integrate) by 12 months.

Adult Reflexes

Reflexes that protect us from injury

You can slow down even reverse the effects of aging by staying physically active.