Which of the following principles states that the child gains control of the head first, then the arms and then the legs?

Correct option is C

This principle, known as the "cephalocaudal principle," states that development in infants typically progresses from the head downward, meaning that control over the head develops first, followed by the ability to control the arms, and finally the legs. This principle helps explain motor development in infants.
Explanation of each option:
· (a) Development proceeds from the centre of the body outward – Incorrect. This principle, known as the "proximodistal principle," refers to the development that starts from the centre of the body and moves outward, affecting the trunk and then the limbs.
· (b) Development proceeds from the simple to the more complex – Incorrect. While development may start with simple tasks, it is not specific to the order in which physical control is gained over body parts.
· (c) Development proceeds from the head downward – Correct answer. The cephalocaudal principle explains the typical sequence of motor control development, starting with head control.
· (d) Growth and development is a continuous process – Incorrect. Although development is continuous, this option doesn't explain the specific progression of control over different body parts.