The 2nd year of life is a time of rapid growth of development, particularly in the realms of social-emotional and cognitive skills as well as motor development. The toddler's newly found ability to walk allows separation and independence; however, the…
The prenatal period and the 1st yr of life provide the platform for remarkable growth and development, setting the trajectory for a child's life. Neural plasticity , the ability of the brain to be shaped by experience, both positive and…
(See also Chapter 113 .) Regardless of gestational age, the newborn (neonatal) period begins at birth and includes the 1st mo of life. During this time, marked physiologic transitions occur in all organ systems, and the infant learns to respond…
The developing fetus is affected by social and environmental influences, including maternal nutritional status; substance use (both legal and illicit); and psychologic trauma. Correspondingly, the psychologic alterations experienced by the parents during the gestation profoundly impact the lives of all…
No force may be more important to a child's development than the family. Many factors contribute to the family's influence, including family structure, functioning, economics, and stress. Parenting provides the foundation to promote healthy child development and to protect against…
The field of pediatrics is dedicated to optimizing the growth and development of each child. Pediatricians require knowledge of normal growth, development, and behavior in order to effectively monitor children's progress, identify delays or abnormalities in development, help obtain needed…
To improve the health of children, pediatricians often ask patients and caregivers to make behavioral changes. These may be lifestyle changes to manage a chronic condition (e.g., obesity, asthma), adherence with the recommended timing and frequency of medications, or recommendations…
The abuse and neglect ( maltreatment ) of children are pervasive problems worldwide, with short- and long-term physical and mental health and social consequences. Child healthcare professionals have an important role in helping address this problem. In addition to their…
Human trafficking violates the fundamental human rights of child and adult victims and impacts families, communities, and societies. Trafficked persons originate from countries worldwide and may belong to any racial, ethnic, religious, socioeconomic, or cultural group. They may be of…
The reach of violence, whether as the victim, perpetrator, or witness, whether in person or through the media, is far, deep, and long-standing across the globe. In the home, it is estimated that 80–95% of such aggression is witnessed by…