| Period of Development | The Experiences of Children and Families | Developmental Concepts
Identifying Factors that Affect Children's Beginnings | Implications
Helping Families Give Offspring Healthy Beginnings |
| Prior to Conception | Kuri and Taro want to have a child. They go to the doctor to discuss their desire to plan for a healthy pregnancy | The health of any children conceived by a couple depends on several factors, including the mother's health prior to the pregnancy and her diet, actions, stress levels, and exposure to teratogens during the pregnancy. The health of children's genes is mostly beyond their parents' control, although some parents may choose to terminate a pregnancy when diagnostic prenatal tests reveal a serious problem. | Encourage prospective parents to talk with their doctor before conception and to make the necessary adjustments to their lifestyle. For example, the woman will want to find out whether any medicines she takes can affect the health of offspring. Couples concerned about possible birth defects may choose to see a genetic counselor. |
During the first few weeks of pregnancy
| A pregnant woman, Antoinette, does not know she is pregnant and continues to drink large amounts of alcohol and smoke a pack of cigarettes each day. Antoinette contracts a cold virus and takes over-the-counter medicines. | | Encourage women who are sexually active and able to conceive children to shield themselves from teratogens as a matter of course.
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From 9 weeks after conception until birth
| A pregnant woman, Larissa, is highly anxious about giving birth to a child because she does not have a job or supportive partner.
Late in her pregnancy, Larissa and her mother go to prepared childbirth courses at their local community college. | Excessive stress can be harmful to both the mother and her unborn child. Preparation for childbirth can reassure parents about the birth process and help them express their preferences for the birth, including who will be present and how they might respond to various possible scenarios. | |
At birth
| Annie and Alberto give birth to a premature baby, Riley, 6 weeks early. He weighs only 4 pounds, 2 ounces. Riley receives intensive medical care and is strong enough to go home with his parents two weeks later. | | Offer appropriate and nurturing care to babies at risk. Address the medical needs of fragile infants, and help parents care for infants in a responsive manner. As premature infants grow, provide them with services, intervention, and educational experiences that help them flourish. |
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