1. 10
Chapter
Physical Development from One to Three
Contents
Section 10.1 Growth and Development from One to Three
Section 10.2 Caring for Children from One to Three

2. Growth from One to Three
Children ages one to three years change dramatically both in growth and development.
One-year old still moves with some uncertainty and needs help with many things
Three-year old can run and jump and do many things on their own
Genes, nutrition, health, and experiences play roles in growth and physical
development. 2

3. Growth from One to Three
Children’s skills improve dramatically.
Children grow and develop in height, weight, proportion, posture, and teeth.
proportion
The size relationship between different parts of the body. 3

4. Development from One to Three
General patterns of development include:
head to foot.
near to far.
simple to complex.
Senses and sensory integration develops.
sensory integration
The process by which the brain combines information taken in through the senses to make a whole. 4

5. Development from One to Three
Developmental milestones compare the average abilities of children of different ages.
Children require toys that are developmentally appropriate.
developmentally appropriate
Toys, activities, and tasks that are suitable for a child at a specific age. 5

6. Development from One to Three
Gross motor skills involve the use and control of the large muscles of the back, legs, shoulders, and arms.
Fine motor skills involve the use and control small muscles, as in the hands and fingers. As
get older, dexterity improves 6

7. Sleeping In one- to three-year-olds:
Changes in sleep patterns are common.
Typically need less sleep than
before
Sleep disturbances often occur.

8. Nutritional Needs and Eating
The eating habits and attitudes of one- to three-year-olds will influence their eating habits throughout life.
Children in this age group do not grow as rapidly and do not eat as much.
Children must be taught to make nutritious food choices.

9. Meal Appeal
One way to promote interest in nutritious foods is to try to make meals appealing for children
Think about these elements when planning a meal:
Color
Texture
Shape
Temperature
Ease of eating

10. Physical Health and Wellness
Parents and caregivers must keep children safe from accidents.
Medical checkups are important for children in this age group.
Immunizations need to be current.

11. Physical Health and Wellness
Safety is an important part of their physical health and wellness
Children ages 1-3 are interested in exploring their environment
Childproof home (see video from last unit)
Environmental concerns
Choking hazards, toys, poisons in the home, fire and burns, motor vehicles, sunburn, pets, and drowning

12. Physical Health and Wellness
Good dental hygiene is important.
Personal hygiene must be taught and modeled.
hygiene
Personal care and cleanliness.

13. Clothing
Clothing must be appropriate to allow children to dress and undress themselves.
Clothes should be comfortable and durable.
What features should you look for in clothes that will aid small children in dressing themselves?