Why We Made This:
Understanding developmental milestones and genetic disorders is essential for comprehending human development theories; however, folks often struggle to organize this broad and detailed material. From early motor and language development to complex genetic inheritance patterns, the information is often overwhelming and difficult to retain—especially for those preparing for exams like the EPPP. We created this PDF to make the material more approachable and memorable. This PDF simplifies core concepts in developmental psychology and genetics, integrating real-world examples and providing a logical structure for comparing developmental domains and genetic conditions across the lifespan.
 
Learning Objectives:
Understand typical developmental milestones across physical, cognitive, social-emotional, and language domains from birth to 2 years old. 
Identify key markers of gross and fine motor skills and their evolution during infancy and toddlerhood.
Describe early cognitive processes such as sensory exploration, object permanence, and symbolic thinking.
Recognize attachment patterns and emotional development, including social behaviors, empathy, and early play.
Differentiate dominant, recessive, and X-linked patterns of genetic inheritance.
Explain the concept of genotype-environment correlations, including passive, evocative, and active types.
Identify causes and symptoms of genetic and chromosomal disorders, including cystic fibrosis, Tay-Sachs, PKU, Down syndrome, and fragile X syndrome.
Understand how various genetic disorders affect physical health, neurological functioning, and cognitive development.