Growth and development follows specific principles: it proceeds from head to legs (cephalocaudal) and arms to fingers (proximodistal). It is continuous, gradual, sequential, and varies between individuals. Development moves from general to specific traits and most traits are correlated. Growth results from both hereditary and environmental factors, and follows predictable patterns through constant interaction of developmental influences.
12. PRINCIPLES OF GRWOTH AND DEVELOPMENT
• It is continuous
• It is gradual
• It is sequential
• Rate of development and growth varies from person to person
• It proceeds from general to specific
• Most traits are correlated
• Growth and development is a product of heredity and environment
• Development is predictable
• There is constant interaction between all the factors of development
