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4.1: Chapter 4- Introduction

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    Introduction to Physical Development in Infancy and Toddlerhood

    Screenshot 2025-04-15 at 11.14.41 AM.png

    Image Source: Stages of a Baby. Freepik.com.

    Welcome to the story of development from infancy through toddlerhood!

    This period lasts from birth until about 3 years of age. Researchers have given this part of the life span more attention than any other period, because changes during this time are so dramatic and so noticeable and perhaps because we have assumed that what happens during these years provides a foundation for one’s life to come. This is the period of life that contemporary educators, healthcare providers, and parents have focused on most heavily.

    We will examine growth and nutrition during infancy, as well as other prominent physical changes that take place during this time.

    After this chapter, you should be able to:

    Learning Objectives
    • describe the physical changes that occur during the first three years of life
    • explore brain development in greater detail
    • identify common infant reflexes
    • discuss the sleep needs during the first three years of life
    • summarize the sequence of both fine and gross motor skills
    • recognize the developing sensory capacities of infants and toddlers
    • explain how to meet the evolving nutritional needs of infants and toddlers.

    Source


    4.1: Chapter 4- Introduction is shared under a CC BY 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by Western Technical College, La Crosse, WI.