Question

According to the principles of motor development, development takes place from:

• A. specific part to the whole body
• B. legs upwards (first legs then arms)
• C. parts near the brain to those away from brain
• D. tail to head

Answer 1

Answer:

C. parts near the brain to those away from brain

There are two fundamental directions in which a child develops physically:

• Cephalocaudal (Head-to-Tail): Development starts from the head and moves downward toward the feet. This explains why a baby first gains control over their head and neck, then their upper body/arms, and finally their legs for walking. Therefore, development moves from "parts near the brain" to those further away.

• Proximodistal (Near-to-Far): Development proceeds from the center of the body outward toward the extremities. A child gains control over their trunk and shoulders before they can control their fingers and toes.

• Specific part to the whole body: This is actually the opposite of the real principle. Development moves from General to Specific. A baby will first move their whole arm (general) before they can pinch a small object with their thumb and forefinger (specific).

• Legs upwards: This contradicts the Cephalocaudal principle. Control is gained in the head/arms long before the legs.

• Tail to head: This is the exact reverse of the Cephalocaudal rule.