Cal Poly Pomona

Overview of Developmental Concepts

  • The focus is primarily on physical and brain development in children.

Physical Development vs. Brain Development

  • Physical development milestones often overshadowed in studies.

  • Suggestion: Brain development should be a separate focus area.

    • Physical development includes growth characteristics like height and skills.

Class Structure and Learning Environment

  • Importance of having a structured class schedule.

  • Challenges managing time and office hours due to grading and low attendance during office hours.

Weather and Outdoor Activity

  • Discussion of impending weather impacting outdoor play and activities for children.

Class Preparation

  • Understanding physical development principles critical for planning curriculum.

    • Focus on principles of differentiation (growth at different times) and integration (growth occurring together).

Growth Milestones

  • Milestones indicate proper development timelines (e.g., walking, climbing).

  • Research has shown variability in children's growth rates—commonly accepted timeframe of three months for developmental milestones.

  • Importance of qualitative (behavioral) and quantitative (measurable) terms in assessing growth.

Dynamic Nature of Growth

  • Children's bodies are dynamic and constantly changing.

  • Growth spurts are common during infancy and early childhood.

Environmental Impact on Development

  • Multi-layered environments affect children's health, emphasizing nutrition and physical activity.

  • The discussion points to growth periods transitioning from reflexive (infancy) to purposeful movements (early childhood).

Nutrition and Childhood Development

  • Key nutrient sources: breast milk preferred for newborns due to antibodies.

  • Importance of protein for brain development and overall growth.

  • Affect of processed food reliance among families and how that impacts health.

    • Processed food can lead to children being overweight despite low income.

Physical Activity Recommendations

  • Recommendation of at least 60 minutes of moderate physical activity daily for children aged 6-17.

  • Importance of structured activity versus unorganized play.

Sleep and Brain Development

  • Sleep critical for brain development—children need 8.5 to 10 hours.

  • Neurons develop and connect primarily during sleep.

  • Structure of the brain: understanding areas and their functions important for educators.

Cognitive Development

  • Look ahead to understanding cognitive development in more detail next week.

  • Anticipate reviewing the interaction of emotional states and cognitive functions related to behavior in the classroom.