When do gains in body size taper off?
In early childhood as children become longer and leaner and individual differences in body size and rate of growth become more apparent
Cerebellum
A structure at the rear and base of the brain that aids in balance and control of body movement
In early childhood, fibers linking the cerebellum to the cerebral cortex grow and myelinate to enhance motor coordination and cognition
Reticular Formation
A structure in the brain stem that maintains alertness and consciousness
develops rapidly in early childhood
Hippocampus
An inner-brain structure that plays a vital role in memory and in images of space that help us find our way
Develops rapidly in early childhood
Amygdala
Inner-brain structure that plays a central role in processing of novelty and emotional information
Develops rapidly in early childhood
Corpus Callosum
Large bundle of fibers connecting the two hemispheres of the cerebral cortex. Supports smooth coordination of movements on both sides of the body and integration of many aspects of thinking
Develops rapidly in early childhood
Which hemisphere is especially active for most children from early to middle childhood?
left cerebral hemisphere
When does synaptic pruning typically occur?
Age 4-5: When many parts of the cerebral cortex have overproduced synapses
Pituitary Gland
A gland at the base of the brain that releases hormones that induce physical growth
Growth Hormone
A pituitary hormone that affects the development of almost all body tissues
Thyroid-Stimulating hormone
A pituitary hormone that stimulates the thyroid gland to release thyroxine, which is necessary for brain development and for growth hormone to have its full impact on body size
When is Growth Hormone released and what does this indicate?
During sleep; sleep contributes to body growth
What do sleep problems frequently stem from in childhood?
- inadequate parental control over use of screen media
- mismatch between parental demands and children’s sleep needs
What is the leading cause of childhood mortality in industrialized nations?
unintentional injuries
Describe children’s drawings with age
- 1-2: scribbles
- 3-4: representational
- 5-6: more realistic
Which culture promotes early teaching of drawing and what does this result in?
Asian cultures: results that are advanced without dampening children’s creativity
By what age do children use an adult-like pencil grip
5 years old
The ability to write letters and one’s own name by ____ predicts better reading and spelling achievement during the school years
kindergarten
Does formal training benefit children’s mastery of motor skills in early childhood?
Not appreciably, informal play develops these skills more
