Posted: July 3rd, 2023

A Comparative Analysis of Growth and Developmental Patterns in Toddlers

Compare and contrast the growth and developmental patterns of two toddlers of different ages using Gordon’s functional health patterns. Describe and apply the components of Gordon’s functional health patterns as it applies to toddlers.

Please make sure to provide citations and references (in APA, 7th ed. format) for your work.

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A Comparative Analysis of Growth and Developmental Patterns in Toddlers: A Gordon’s Functional Health Patterns Approach

Introduction:
Understanding the growth and developmental patterns of toddlers is crucial for healthcare professionals and caregivers alike. In this article, we will compare and contrast the growth and developmental patterns of two toddlers of different ages using Gordon’s functional health patterns. Gordon’s framework provides a holistic approach to assessing a child’s health by examining various functional areas. By applying this framework, we can gain insights into the unique characteristics and needs of toddlers at different stages of development.

Gordon’s Functional Health Patterns:
Gordon’s functional health patterns encompass 11 areas that encompass a comprehensive assessment of an individual’s health. These patterns include health perception and management, nutritional-metabolic, elimination, activity-exercise, sleep-rest, cognitive-perceptual, self-perception/self-concept, roles-relationships, sexuality-reproductive, coping-stress tolerance, and values-beliefs.

Comparison of Two Toddlers:
For the purpose of this analysis, we will compare and contrast two toddlers: Toddler A, who is 12 months old, and Toddler B, who is 24 months old.

Health Perception and Management:
At 12 months old, Toddler A is gradually becoming aware of their surroundings and developing a sense of trust in their primary caregivers. They rely heavily on their caregivers to meet their health needs and may display anxiety when separated from them. In contrast, at 24 months old, Toddler B is more independent and beginning to assert their preferences and autonomy. They demonstrate an increased awareness of their health, such as indicating when they are hungry or tired.

Nutritional-Metabolic:
Both toddlers require a well-balanced diet to support their growth and development. At 12 months old, Toddler A is transitioning from breast milk or formula to solid foods. They may have a limited diet and require frequent meals to meet their nutritional needs. At 24 months old, Toddler B has a more varied diet and is transitioning to a family-based diet. They are able to self-feed and display preferences for certain foods.

Elimination:
Toddler A is in the process of mastering bladder and bowel control. They may still require diapers but might display signs of readiness for toilet training. Toddler B, at 24 months old, is typically more advanced in toilet training, although occasional accidents may still occur.

Activity-Exercise:
Both toddlers have an increasing desire for exploration and physical activity. At 12 months old, Toddler A is beginning to crawl, pull up, and cruise along furniture. They are becoming more coordinated in their movements. At 24 months old, Toddler B has developed more advanced motor skills and is likely walking independently and climbing stairs.

Sleep-Rest:
Both toddlers require adequate sleep for optimal growth and development. At 12 months old, Toddler A typically sleeps for longer durations during the night but may still require daytime naps. At 24 months old, Toddler B’s sleep patterns become more consistent, with most sleep occurring during the night and a gradual decrease in the frequency and duration of daytime naps.

Cognitive-Perceptual:
Toddler A’s cognitive abilities are rapidly developing. They are increasingly curious and engaged with their environment. They are beginning to understand object permanence and enjoy repetitive play. Toddler B, at 24 months old, demonstrates more advanced cognitive skills. They are actively exploring and experimenting with objects, developing problem-solving abilities, and engaging in pretend play.

Self-Perception/Self-Concept:
At 12 months old, Toddler A is developing a sense of self-identity and relies on interactions with caregivers for validation and reassurance. Toddler B, at 24 months old, is gaining a greater sense of independence and autonomy. They may assert their preferences and display emotions such as frustration when their desires are not met.

Roles-Relationships:
Both toddlers are developing social skills and establishing relationships with their caregivers and peers. At 12 months old, Toddler A may exhibit separation anxiety and rely on primary caregivers for comfort. At 24 months old, Toddler B is more likely to engage in parallel play and demonstrate an emerging awareness of sharing and turn-taking.

Sexuality-Reproductive:
Sexuality and reproductive aspects are not relevant during the toddler years, as these concepts are beyond their developmental stage.

Coping-Stress Tolerance:
Toddlers may experience stress in various situations. At 12 months old, Toddler A may exhibit distress when separated from caregivers or faced with unfamiliar situations. Toddler B, at 24 months old, is more capable of self-soothing and may exhibit frustration or tantrums when confronted with limits or boundaries.

Values-Beliefs:
Toddlers are in the early stages of developing values and beliefs. They are influenced by the values and beliefs of their caregivers and immediate environment.

Conclusion:
By applying Gordon’s functional health patterns, we can gain valuable insights into the growth and developmental patterns of toddlers. While each toddler is unique, understanding their health perceptions, nutritional needs, activity levels, cognitive abilities, and social interactions can help caregivers and healthcare professionals support their optimal growth and development.

References:

Gordon, M. (2016). Manual of Nursing Diagnosis. Jones & Bartlett Publishers.

Hockenberry, M. J., & Wilson, D. (2018). Wong’s Essentials of Pediatric Nursing. Elsevier Health Sciences.

Shelov, S. P., & Altmann, T. R. (2018). Caring for Your Baby and Young Child: Birth to Age 5. Bantam.

Perry, S. E., Hockenberry, M. J., Lowdermilk, D. L., & Wilson, D. (2021). Maternal Child Nursing Care. Elsevier Health Sciences.

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