DCF FL Child Care (CGDR) Child Growth and Development

Growth - Answer- refers to specific body changes and increases in the child's size, such as a child's height, weight, head circumference, and body mass index. These size changes can usually be easily measured. Development - Answer- typically refers to an increase in complexity, a change from relatively simple to more complicated. Development usually involves a progression along a continuous pathway on which the child acquires more refined knowledge, behaviors, and skills. The sequence is basically the same for all children, however, the rate varies. Growth definition - Answer- Growth is defined as specific body changes and increases in the child's size, proceeding from the head downward and from the center of the body outward. During the first year of an infant's life, - Answer- babies can grow ten inches in length and triple their birth weight. After the first year, - Answer- a baby's growth in length slows to five inches a year for the next two years and then continues from age two or three to puberty at a rate of two to three inches each year. Similarities in growth: - Answer- Growth proceeds from the head downward and from the center of the body outward. Children gain control of the head and neck first, then the arms, and finally, the legs. At birth, the brain, heart, and spinal cord are fully functioning to support the infant. As children grow, the arm and leg muscles develop, followed by the finger and toe muscles. Differences in growth: - Answer- Some children are taller, some shorter. Some children are smaller, while others are larger. These differences are completely typical. Typical growth is supported by good nutrition, adequate sleep, and regular exercise. Children do not grow at perfectly steady rates throughout childhood. Children will experience weeks or months of slightly slower growth, followed by growth spurts. Differences in the amount of growth can be a source of self-consciousness for some children. Because each child is different and special, it is important to help them understand this concept in order to develop a sense of self-acceptance. - Answer- It is important to help the children in your care understand that differences in growth patterns are typical. Development definition - Answer- Development refers to an increase in complexity; a change from