What aspect of early development does NOT align with typical patterns observed in infants?

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Prepare for the Florida DCF Infant and Toddler Appropriate Practices Exam. Study with engaging flashcards and multiple choice questions that include hints and explanations. Ace your exam!

The choice that highlights an aspect of early development that does not align with typical patterns in infants is the idea that infants gain body control from toe to head. In fact, infants generally develop body control in a head-to-toe progression, where they first gain control over their head and neck before they develop control over their shoulders, trunk, and eventually their legs and feet. This pattern is referred to as cephalocaudal development, which illustrates how motor skills typically emerge from the top of the body downward.

Understanding this developmental trajectory is essential for caregivers and educators, as it informs how to support infants' physical skill acquisition appropriately. Recognizing that head control comes before sitting, crawling, and walking allows for the creation of safe environments and suitable activities that promote each stage of motor development effectively.