Author Question: You have been asked to develop a program of optimal sensory stimulation and motor skill development ... (Read 65 times)

geodog55 · **on:** Jun 22, 2018

You have been asked to develop a program of optimal sensory stimulation and motor skill development for infants who were confined to crowded shelters as victims of Hurricane Katrina.

What kinds of experiences would you plan to support sensory and motor skill development?

What will be an ideal response

Question 2

Describe the effects that maternal stress during pregnancy can have on the infant. What are the possible long-term consequences of maternal stress during pregnancy?

What will be an ideal response

shoemake · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 22, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Answers will vary and should include stimulation of all of the five senses and
experiences to develop both fine and gross motor skills. Creativity should be
demonstrated due to the potential lack of supplies and toys.

Answer to Question 2

The answer should explain that when the pregnant mother is stressed, the
overproduction of cortisol and other stress hormones in the mother can cross the
placenta and affect the developing fetus. Studies have shown that fetal heart rates
tend to be chronically elevated when the mother is chronically stressed. Research
indicates that exposure to high levels of stress hormones during gestation can affect
the behavior of the child even through adulthood. These children tend to be
hypervigilant, overemotional, or indifferent. They generally demonstrate poor coping
responses to stressors.