E1- Summarise the factors which may influence the health and development of babies in the first year of their lives
Environmental factors such as not having enough space in the garden for babies to move around to play and explore will influence their development as they maynot be able to expand their fine and gross motor skills. The environment can affect babies health and development as people around the baby who may smoke can transfer that smoke to the baby even if the smoke isnt directly infront of them. By having a ward and consistant home this can help the baby feel safe and secure therefore maintaining their health and development. Parents may not be able to afford toys and equipment for their child to play with, this may affect the child as the child may not get to experience different experiences. A stimulating environment for a baby is important as they will learn according to the opportunities they get, objects such as rattles, musical toys will encourage movement and interaction.
Physical- This is important as babies development can be affected by this. The mother may not be able to take the baby for walks outside or carry the baby around or upstairs/downstairs due to disabilities that the mother or parents may have in general.
Genetics is another factor which may influence health and development of the child as some illnessess are inherited. An example is Downs Syndrome, this is a genetic condition that causes physical and intellectual impariments.
The mothers health plays a vital role in the development of a baby as women who are in good health during pregnancy are more likely of having a healthy baby, as the baby will be getting all the nurtition it needs to develop. If the mother is not healthy the baby will be affected by this.
Emotional- After having a baby some mothers suffer or develop from post natal depression and this can affect how the mother and babys bond in the first few months.