Fetal Development

Information compiled from Wittmer & Petersen, the Mayo Clinic, BabyCenter.com, AAP, and additional sources.

Wittmer, D.S. & Petersen, S. H., Infant and Toddler Development and Responsive Program Planning: A Relationship-Based ApproachPrentice Hall

Slide 4.2

The Fetus The first trimester

Ovum and sperm combine Rapid cell multiplication Implantation/Placenta FormsExternal Features/Internal OrgansSleep/wake, grasp, suck, swallow

(Pages 75-76)

12 WeeksAt the size of a lime, your baby is showing reflexes…opening & closing hands, sucking, & squirming. Brain synapses are firing rapidly and his or her face is recognizably human.

Wittmer, D.S. & Petersen, S. H., Infant and Toddler Development and Responsive Program Planning: A Relationship-Based ApproachPrentice Hall

Slide 4.4

The FetusThe second trimester

Rapid growth & development

Mother feels movement (active about half the time)

Hear heartbeat, crying

24 WeeksAt the length of an ear of corn, the circulatory & digestive systems are developed & baby’s still experiencing rapid brain growth. You feel movement & doctors hear crying through the stethoscope.

Wittmer, D.S. & Petersen, S. H., Infant and Toddler Development and Responsive Program Planning: A Relationship-Based ApproachPrentice Hall

Slide 4.6

The FetusThe third trimester

Rapid brain development

Listening to language

Internal organs mature

Sucks fingers to comfort self

Could survive w/ complications

40 WeeksYour baby has added fat for insulation and is now 7 ½ pounds, the size of a small pumpkin. S/he is taking in the sounds of your language and is now head down for easy delivery. The skull bones have not yet fused to allow passage through the birth canal.