Regardless of where you work, it's a good idea to have a basic understanding of developmental stages. Plus this is something that could be asked on the RD exam.

This episode of the RD Exam Made Easy Podcast covers developmental stages.

This is what you'll learn in this episode:

• What to keep in mind of with each developmental stage and how it influences that individuals nutrition and well-being.
• A review of each developmental stage from infancy through geriatrics
• How you, the dietitian, can help individuals through the life cycle

Here's a glance at this episode:

[04:00] A review of infancy, when breastfeeding should be initiated and how nutrition is advanced throughout this stage of life.

[09:57] I explain why I loved pediatrics so much and how it made me a much better clinician

[11:00] An overview of toddlerhood and how meals are impacted by textures, smells as well as the steep learning and growth curve that happens at this age

[14:35] A review of preschool age, the developmental changes and how peers start to have an influence at this age

[16:38] Moving on to school aged kids where social influence is huge and how media also impacts the nutrition of individuals at this age

[20:25] Adolescence from growth spurts and the big impact of social validation. I also review growth charts and why we still plot adolescents on the growth curve.

[25:30] The main goals of nutrition in adulthood

[26:40] An overview of geriatrics from how the elderly are defined, to the importance of monitoring for malnutrition, assessing ADL's, and modifications to meals to ensure adequate intake. You'll also get an overview of the Blue Zones.

And I give a couple shout outs to some incredible new RD's that have joined the RD community!