Chapter 8

Question 1

What is ossification, and when does it occur?

Answer 1

Ossification is the process where cartilage turns into bone, occurring in early childhood.

Question 2

What are the growth patterns in early childhood?

Answer 2

Growth rate slows down, with ~2-3 inches and ~4-6 pounds gained per year. Children also thin out as they lose “baby” fat.

Question 3

When do children typically have their primary teeth, and when do they start losing them?

Answer 3

Children typically have all 20 primary teeth by 3 years old and begin losing them around 7-8 years old.

Question 4

Describe brain development in preschoolers.

Answer 4

The brain undergoes rapid growth, reaching 90% of adult weight by 5 years old. Synaptic pruning and myelination continue, improving motor development and the ability to focus and inhibit attention.

Question 5

What areas of the brain undergo significant myelination during early childhood?

Answer 5

Myelination occurs particularly in the corpus callosum, cerebellum, and motor cortex during early childhood.

Question 6

How does sleep change in preschoolers?

Answer 6

Preschoolers may experience sleeping disorders such as insomnia, nightmares, and night terrors.

Question 7

Describe night terrors and when they typically occur.

Answer 7

Night terrors are a semi-wake state of physical arousal, typically beginning in early childhood. They are associated with stress and may lead children to fear sleep.

Question 8

What can help children experiencing night terrors?

Answer 8

Parental support and a regular sleep routine can benefit children experiencing night terrors.

Question 9

What is nocturnal enuresis?

Answer 9

Nocturnal enuresis is bedwetting, which is a common elimination issue in early childhood.