Chapter 5 Flashcards
Dynamic Systems Theory
A theory proposed by Esther Thelen, that states that infants assemble motor skills for perceiving and acting.
How is a motor skill developed?
When infants are motivated to do something, they create a new motor behavior.
Reflexes
Built in reactions to stimuli.
Rooting reflex
A new borns built-in reaction that occurs when the infants cheek is stroked or the side of the mouth is touched. In response, the infant turns its head towards the side that was touched, in an apparent effort to find something to suck.
Sucking reflex
Newborns automatically such an object placed in their mouth.
Moro reflex
When startled, the newborn arches its back, throws back its head, and flings out its arms.
Grasping reflex
When something touches an infants palm, the infant responds by grasping tightly.
Gross motor skills
Skills that involve large muscle activities.
Postural control
The maintenance of body posture in space.
What is a good way to develop gross motor skills in kids?
Sports.
Fine motor skills
Involve finely tuned movements.
Perceptual motor coupling
The way perceptual and motor development are coupled with each other.
Increased myelination of the central nervous system…
is reflected in the improvement of fine motor skills in middle and late childhood.
Sensation
occurs when information interacts with sensory receptors (eyes, ears, tongue, nostrils, and skin).
Perception
is the interpretation of what is sensed.
