Page 3 - LESSION 8.pmd

Stages of Child Development : –Prenatal; and –Birth to Three Years

One key feature of the germinal stage is the formation of the placenta which
is a thick, blood rich tissue lining the wall of the uterus. The placenta has two
important functions: Notes

• Passing oxygen and nutrients from the mother’s blood into the embryo or
foetus i.e. nourishes the developing embryo

• Removing waste materials from the embryo or foetus

Stage 2: The Embryonic Stage

The embryonic stage lasts from the end of the germinal stage to two months
after conception. The developing ball of cells is now called an embryo. In this
stage, all the major organs form, and the embryo becomes very fragile. At the
end of the embryonic period, the embryo is only about an inch long.

Stage 3: The Foetal Stage

The last stage of prenatal development is the foetal stage, which lasts from two
months after conception until birth. About one month into this stage, the sex
organs of the foetus begin to form. The foetus quickly grows as bones and
muscles form, and it begins to move inside the uterus. Organ systems develop
further and start to function. During the last three months, the brain increases
rapidly in size, an insulating layer of fat forms under the skin, and the respiratory
and digestive systems start to work independently.

8.1.2 Factors Affecting Prenatal Growth and Development
Though all infants are expected to follow a ‘normal’ pattern of prenatal
development, some factors might impinge normal growth. A teratogen is any
disease, drug or other environment agent that can harm a developing embryo
or foetus by causing physical deformation, retarded growth and damage to brain.
Some of the teratogens and other factors that affect prenatal growth are
discussed below:

• Drugs: Medical drugs such as antibiotics and non-prescribed illegal drugs
such as marijuana, opiates and cocaine are potentially harmful for the
foetus.
• Alcohol and Smoking: Intake of alcohol and smoking negatively affects
the foetus. These can lead to mental retardation and slow physical growth.
Excessive quantity of nicotine and caffeine may also affect the growing
foetus.

• Environmental Hazards: Environmental hazards caused by modern day
living, such as exposure to chemicals, radiations, extreme heat and
humidity, can also cause prenatal mutations and deformities.
EARLY CHILDHOOD CARE AND EDUCATION 105