Final answer:
Growth and development proceeding from the head toward the feet is known as cephalocaudal development, a pattern where infants first control their head and neck, later progressing to lower body control and motor skills.
Step-by-step explanation:
Growth and development that proceeds from the head toward the feet is known as cephalocaudal development.
The term cephalocaudal development describes a pattern of growth where bodily growth starts at the head and then progresses downwards towards the feet. This principle is most noticeable during infancy, where infants first gain control over their head and neck muscles before the lower parts of the body. As babies grow, they follow a distinct developmental sequence, which includes holding their head up, then sitting with assistance, and later sitting unassisted. Eventually, they begin to crawl and then walk.
This pattern of development is influenced by both genetics and the environment, illustrating the concept that while some aspects of development are universal, individual development also varies based on a variety of factors. This growth pattern is also observed in prenatal development, as evidenced by the fetal development stages where sensory organs and motor skills progress in a cephalocaudal manner.