Module 4: Infancy Flashcards
What are axons?
transfer electrochemical signals to the dendrite of another neuron
What are dendrites?
receive electrochemical signals from axons
What is a cortex?
the outer layers of the brain; involves thinking, feeling, and sensing
What is a synapses?
the space between the axon of one neuron and the dendritie of another neuron
What are neurotransmitters?
brain chemicals that carry information from axons to dendrites
What is transient exuberance?
the temporary dramatic growth of dendrites in an infants brain (during first 2 years)
What is pruning?
process where neural pathways not used are eliminated
What are the parts of the neuron?
sighhh it wont let me add pictures but pls recall :)
01 oligodendrocyte
Cell membrane
Dendrites
0
Cell body (soma)
Axon
Node of Ranvier
Myelin sheath
Synapse
What is the prefrontal cortex?
behind forehead, anticipation, planning, and impluse control; last part of the brain to develop
What is the myelin?
coating of fatty tissue around axon
What are neurons?
nerve cells
What are the overall physical growth patterns during infancy?
first few days infants loose 5% of body weight; by 4 months double in weight; by age 2 quadruple; transient exuberance
How does the brain grow during infancy?
Head initially makes up 50% of entire lengeth in womb; communication within central nervous system; pruning
What are motor skills?
any movement ability
What are reflexes?
involuntary movements in response to stimulation; born with
What is cephalocaudal and proximodistal?
from head down; from center out
What are gross motor skills?
voluntary movement that involve use of large muscle groups
What are fine motor skills?
small body movements, ability to grasp an object, hands and fingers
What is sensation?
interaction of information with sensory receptors
What is perception?
process of interpreting what is sensed
What is cephalocaudal and proximodistal development?
growing from head down; center out
What is the last developed sense in newborns?
Vision; poor acuity (fine detail) and sensitivity (faint visual stimulus)
What senses are well developed at birth?
Taste, smell, touch, hearing
What is developmental trajectory?
We go thtough developmental patterns/steps; no certain age but always in different variations
What are the merits of breastfeeding?
Provides needed nurtients for infants growth, rapid development; better development of neurologic function and cognitive development
What is the importance of nutrition to early physical growth?
To avoid maknutrition, marasmus (starvation die to lack of calories and protein), and kwashiorkor (disease fo displaced child)