Overview
This lecture introduces the study of how and why children grow, develop, and learn from conception through adolescence, focusing on physical, cognitive, social, and emotional changes.
Introduction to Child Development
- Child development explores the changes in physical, cognitive, and emotional abilities from conception to adolescence.
- The course examines both how and why these developmental changes occur throughout childhood.
- It emphasizes the interconnected nature of physical, cognitive, and social-emotional development.
Conception, Heredity, and Prenatal Development
- Heredity and genetics significantly influence an individual's development.
- Conception involves genetic processes that determine traits and potential disorders.
- Prenatal development is shaped by genetic factors and parental influences, including the impact of teratogens (harmful environmental agents).
Birth and the Newborn
- Childbirth marks the transition from prenatal to independent life.
- Newborns must independently regulate bodily functions such as temperature and feeding.
Infancy and Toddlerhood (Physical, Cognitive, Emotional)
- Infancy (birth to two years) involves rapid physical growth and foundational development.
- Major cognitive development theories relevant to this stage include Piaget, Vygotsky, Chomsky, Skinner, Pavlov, Watson, Bandura, and Bronfenbrenner.
- Early social and emotional milestones are heavily influenced by caregiver interactions.
Early Childhood (Preschool Years)
- Ages three to five bring major changes in appearance, thinking, communication, and emotional regulation.
- Physical and cognitive abilities expand, and children increasingly explore their roles in the world.
Middle Childhood
- Physical, cognitive, and social abilities continue to strengthen in ages six to twelve.
- Children become more logical, organized, and self-aware.
- Peer, family, and media influences shape self-concept.
Adolescence
- Puberty now begins earlier and adolescence lasts longer than before.
- Adolescents develop more complex cognitive skills and seek personal identity.
- Peer groups become influential as teens form their sense of self, often diverging from parental expectations.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Heredity — genetic transmission of characteristics from parents to offspring.
- Teratogen — environmental agent that can cause harm during prenatal development.
- Cognitive Development — changes in thinking, learning, and memory abilities over time.
- Self-concept — an individual's understanding of themselves, including strengths and weaknesses.
- Puberty — the physical and hormonal changes marking the transition from childhood to adolescence.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review chapters for each stage of development from conception through adolescence.
- Familiarize yourself with key theorists (Piaget, Vygotsky, Chomsky, etc.).
- Prepare to discuss major milestones for each developmental stage.