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infant

Primary Information
Secondary Information

Definition

An infant is a young child who is less than a year old. Infants are characterized by their rapid growth and development, their dependence on caregivers for all their needs, and their limited communication skills.

Infants typically grow about 10 inches in their first year and double their birth weight. They also develop rapidly in terms of their motor skills, cognitive skills, and social-emotional skills.

Infants are completely dependent on their caregivers for all their needs, including food, shelter, clothing, and love. They cannot walk, talk, or feed themselves, and they need help with everything from bathing to changing diapers.

Infants communicate primarily through crying and gestures. They begin to babble around 6 months of age, and they start to say their first words around 1 year of age.

How can the word be used?

The infant was born prematurely and weighed only 2 pounds.

infant

Different forms of the word

Noun: An infant is a very young child. It is typically used to refer to a child from birth to the age of one, but it can also be used to refer to a child up to the age of two or three.

Adjective: Infant means very young. It is often used to describe a child or animal that is still in its early stages of development.

Etymology

The word "infant" comes from the Latin word "infans", which means "unable to speak". This is a very accurate description of the meaning of the word "infant", as infants are unable to speak for the first few months of their lives.

Question

What is an infant?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

Explain the importance of proper nutrition and care for infants during their early developmental stages, detailing the nutritional requirements essential for their growth, and discuss the role of breastfeeding in providing optimal nourishment and immune support.

Answer:

Proper nutrition and care during infancy are critical for healthy growth and development. Infants have unique nutritional needs that play a crucial role in building a strong foundation for their future well-being.

Infants require a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients such as proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Proteins are crucial for tissue growth, while fats provide energy and support brain development. Carbohydrates fuel their active metabolism, aiding in overall growth.

Breastfeeding is widely recognised as a key factor in infant nutrition. Breast milk contains a mix of nutrients specifically tailored to an infant's needs, along with antibodies that bolster their developing immune system, providing protection against infections and diseases. It also fosters a strong emotional bond between mother and child.

Beyond nutrition, proper care includes maintaining a clean and safe environment, ensuring regular medical check-ups, and promoting healthy sleep patterns. Early interaction and stimulation are also vital for cognitive and social development.

In conclusion, the early stages of an infant's life are crucial for establishing a strong foundation for growth and development. Providing proper nutrition, especially through breastfeeding, along with attentive care and a nurturing environment, contribute significantly to their physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being.