Prenatal Foundations and Birth

Genetic Foundations of Child Development

All children have a set of genetic instructions that influence their characteristics at birth as well as their many characteristics that emerge as they grow. Most of the genes that children inherit are ones that they share with other children, giving them a common human heritage. Other genes contribute to children's individuality by disposing them to look and act in certain unique ways. Genes exert their effects on children through complex and interactive processes in cells and bodily systems; the effects of genes are mediated by children's health, other physiological processes, and children's experience in particular environments. Acknowledging the powerful effects of nature, teachers and other professionals can show that they value children's genetically based traits, such as having a certain temperament, physical appearance, or unusual talent. Practitioners can also express their confidence that, whatever children's natural abilities, children have the potential to achieve high personal and academic standards.

Prenatal Development

At conception, the new being inherits a unique genetic makeup and begins the lifelong process of growing, changing, and interacting in and with the environment. Development begins at conception, when the zygote, a one-celled being, divides multiple times and becomes a ball of cells that burrows into the uterus. Two to nine weeks after conception, the embryo grows rapidly, forming structures needed to sustain future growth and developing rudimentary organs and body parts. Between week nine and birth, the fetus continues to grow rapidly, now putting the finishing touches on the body and brain and becoming sufficiently heavy and strong to live in the world. Professionals can support healthy prenatal growth of children by informing prospective parents (and all sexually active women) about the damaging effects of teratogens to unborn children; the need to evaluate their health and medical regimens prior to a pregnancy; and the value of stress reduction, a healthful diet, appropriate exercise, and ongoing medical care during pregnancy.

Birth of the Baby

The birth of the baby is an exciting event for parents and other family members, who can ease their anxiety and the mother's pain by preparing for childbirth. Birth is a multistage process that is often helped along by family members and professionals in the medical community, such as doctors, nurses, and midwives. The health and medical needs of newborn infants depend on their birth weight, size, prenatal exposure to teratogens, the mother's health, and the newborn infants' genetic vulnerabilities. Family educators and other professionals can help parents develop realistic expectations about their newborn infants and respond sensitively to their physical and psychological needs.

Child Development and Education Textbook. PEARSONS. Chapter 3.