Child Bio: 17 flashcards

**Growth** refers to an increase in physical size (height, weight, cell number), while **development** refers to the progressive acquisition of skills and functions (motor, cognitive, social). Growth is quantitative; development is qualitative.

**Infancy** (birth to ~2 years) and **puberty** (adolescence).

The pattern where growth proceeds from **head to tail** (head develops before the trunk and limbs).

The pattern where growth proceeds from the **center of the body outward** to the extremities (arms and legs develop before fingers and toes).

**Motor development** is the acquisition of physical skills involving movement. **Gross motor**: walking, running, jumping. **Fine motor**: grasping, writing, buttoning.

The strong emotional bond that forms between an infant and a primary caregiver, typically in the first year of life. It is crucial for social and emotional development.

Specific time windows during which the brain is highly sensitive to certain environmental stimuli; if not received, development may be impaired. Example: **language acquisition** in early childhood.

**Puberty** is the stage of development when a child's body becomes sexually mature. It is triggered by hormonal signals from the **hypothalamus** and **pituitary gland**, leading to increased production of sex hormones (estrogen, testosterone).

**Protein** for tissue building and **calcium** for bone development. Also iron, vitamins, and adequate calories.

Sleep promotes growth via **growth hormone** release, supports brain development, memory consolidation, and immune function.

**Immunization** is the process of making a person immune to a disease, typically through vaccination. It protects children from serious infectious diseases and prevents outbreaks.

1. **Sensorimotor** (0–2 years), 2. **Preoperational** (2–7 years), 3. **Concrete operational** (7–11 years), 4. **Formal operational** (11+ years).

**Object permanence** is the understanding that objects continue to exist even when not seen. It develops during the **sensorimotor stage** (typically by 8–12 months).

**Initiative vs. guilt**. Children assert control and power over their environment; success leads to a sense of purpose.

Provides essential nutrients, antibodies (IgA), enzymes, and hormones; reduces risk of infections, allergies, and obesity; promotes bonding.

A condition in which a child's growth and weight gain are significantly below the expected norms, often due to inadequate nutrition, neglect, or underlying medical conditions.

**Nutrition** and **socioeconomic status** (access to healthcare, education, safe housing). Other factors: pollution, stress, and parental care.