Human Growth and Development

• The first stage is the prenatal period, which lasts from conception to birth.
• Factors that can affect prenatal development include maternal health, nutrition, stress levels, exposure to drugs or alcohol, and genetics.
• Prenatal development involves both genetic factors (inherited traits) and environmental influences (external stimuli).
• During this time, the fetus develops rapidly through cell division and differentiation into various organs and systems.
• The third stage is the phallic stage, where children become aware of sexual differences and may have feelings of jealousy towards the opposite-sex parent.
• Prenatal care involves regular check-ups with a healthcare provider to monitor the health and wellbeing of both the mother and baby throughout pregnancy.
• During this time, the fetus develops physically and mentally through various stages such as implantation, embryonic development, organogenesis, and fetal growth.
• Environmental factors are external conditions or experiences that influence an individual's development.
• Preterm labor: Labor that begins too early, usually before 37 weeks gestation.
• Genetic factors refer to inherited characteristics passed down from parents to offspring.
• Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR): A condition where the fetus does not grow at an appropriate rate during pregnancy due to insufficient nutrients or oxygen supply.
• In the fourth stage, called latency, children focus on developing skills and interests outside of their family relationships.
• It's important for pregnant women to maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, avoid smoking and excessive drinking, and manage any underlying medical conditions.
• Middle childhood is marked by increased independence and socialization, including peer relationships and school experiences.
• This stage begins around age six and ends at puberty.
• Organ formation begins around week 3-4 of gestation when organs begin to develop from clusters of cells called germ layers.
• Early childhood is characterized by rapid growth and development, with children learning basic skills such as walking, talking, and self-care.
• The fourth stage is the latency stage, where children focus on developing skills and interests outside of family relationships.
• Cell division occurs rapidly during the early stages of embryonic development, with cells dividing every few hours.
• Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR): A condition characterized by slow weight gain during pregnancy due to insufficient nutrient supply.
• Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS): A condition caused by excessive maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy, resulting in physical and cognitive abnormalities in the child.
• Gestational age refers to how long it has been since conception occurred.