Slide 1TeratogensBrain physiologyBabies Learn About the WorldBabies Learn About PeopleBabies Learn About ObjectsBabies Learn About LanguageFostering LearningBRAIN DEVELOPMENTAND EARLY LEARNINGTeratogensDefinition: environmental substance causing prenatal damageExamples: prescription and non-prescription drugs, alcohol, viruses, environmental pollution, etcTeratogens’ effects4 factors determine severity of effectsBrain physiology100 billion neuronsGlial cells support neuronsMyelination adds speedSynapses create connectionsSynaptic pruningBrains have plasticityBabies Learn About the WorldExternal worldOther mindsLanguageBabies Learn About PeopleImitating othersRecognizing the familiarFlirting with othersUnderstanding others’ reactionsOther minds: alike and differentTesting autonomy Demonstrating empathyBabies Learn About Objects Living in a 3 dimensional worldObjects have size constancyCan coordinate their sensesObject disappearance and permanence Learning about casualityCategorizing objectsBabies Learn About Language At birth, babies know a great dealCan discriminate all phonemesLearn patterns of languageLearn social side of languageExposure changes our brain; personal connection is paramountFostering Learning Interacting and playingTalkingAllowing babies to exploreFollowing your
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