Infants achieve developmental control in a particular order. Which is correct?

The correct response reflects the typical sequence of physical development known as "cephalocaudal" development, which describes how infants gain control over their bodies starting from the head and moving downward towards the feet. This means that infants first develop control over their head and neck muscles, allowing them to lift their heads, before they gain control over their upper body, arms, and eventually their legs and feet.

This head-to-toe progression is crucial for various motor skills, such as sitting, crawling, and eventually walking. Understanding this order of development helps caregivers and educators provide appropriate support and activities that encourage emerging skills at each stage. For instance, providing tummy time helps strengthen the neck, shoulders, and eventually the back muscles needed for later mobility.

Recognizing this developmental order allows for more effective teaching strategies and caregiving approaches that align with the natural progression of infant growth, ensuring that infants receive the stimulation and support they need at the right times in their development.