School age child development is a range from 6 to 12 years of age.

During this time-period

observable differences in height, weight, and build of children may be prominent. The language
skills of children continue to grow and many behavior changes occur as they try to find their
place among their peers.

PHYSICAL GROWTH: School-age children tend to get taller at a steady pace, growing about 2-
2.5 inches (6 to 7 centimeters) each year. When it comes to weight, kids gain about 4–7 lbs.
(2–3 kg) per year until puberty starts.
MOTOR DEVELOPMENT:
GROSS MOTOR DEVELOPMENT

 Enjoy team games (soccer, football, cricket, tennis, etc)

 Your child can jump forward about 60 cm with both feet.
 They can jump on one foot 10 times while staying in one spot or moving forward.
 They can kick a ball while moving and changing directions.
 They can ride a bicycle without training wheels over a short distance.
 They can coordinate their upper and lower body while jumping (e.g., they can do
jumping jacks).
 They demonstrate improved balance and endurance during physical activities.

FINE MOTOR DEVELOPMENT

 Handwriting becomes more fluid, automatic and less of an effort
 Writing speed increases
 Writing can occur well without ruled lines
 Your child can write out most letters of the alphabet, but may form some letters
backwards.
 They draw characters with more accuracy, adding detail to their drawings and respecting
proportions more and more (e.g., parents are taller than children, the dog is smaller than
the child, the house is bigger than all the characters, etc.).
 Your child’s finger placement when holding scissors becomes more comfortable, and
they can cut out complex shapes by following an outline.
 When tying their shoes, your child can make a bow if an adult reminds them of the steps
to follow.
 They can handle small objects with their fingertips without dropping anything.
MENTAL ABILITIES

 Children between 6 and 12 years old will begin valuing friendships and become more
involved in activities like sports and/or painting.
 Social relationships become more important, and children learn to navigate the
complexities of friendships. They develop the ability to cooperate, share, and resolve
conflicts with peers.

PLAY DURING SCHOOL AGE

Play remains an essential aspect of a child's development throughout the school-age years (6-
12 years old). While the nature of play may evolve with age, it continues to contribute to
cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. Here are some types of play that are
particularly relevant during this stage:
1. Cooperative Play:
  As children develop better social skills, they are more likely to engage in
cooperative play. This involves working together with peers to achieve a common
goal, whether it's building something, playing a game, or engaging in a team
sport.
2. Rule-Based Games:
 Children in this age group often enjoy games with rules. Board games, card
games, and organized sports provide opportunities for them to understand and
follow rules, practice good sportsmanship, and develop strategic thinking.
3. Imaginative Play:
 While imaginative play may become more complex, children between 6 and 12
years old still enjoy using their creativity. This could involve playing make-believe,
creating elaborate stories, or engaging in role-playing activities.
4. Outdoor Play:
 Physical activity remains crucial during the school-age years. Outdoor play, such
as biking, playing sports, or exploring nature, helps develop gross motor skills,
coordination, and a sense of spatial awareness.
5. Constructive Play:
 Building and construction activities become more sophisticated. Whether it's
building with blocks, constructing models, or engaging in crafts, children in this
age group enhance their problem-solving skills and creativity.
6. Educational Games and Activities:
 Play can be a valuable tool for learning. Educational games, puzzles, and
interactive activities that involve problem-solving or strategic thinking contribute
to cognitive development.
7. Board Games and Card Games:
 Board games and card games become increasingly popular during this stage.
These games provide opportunities for social interaction, strategic thinking, and
rule following.
8. Sports and Physical Activities:
 Organized sports, such as soccer, basketball, or gymnastics, become more
structured during the school-age years. Participating in these activities helps
develop teamwork, coordination, and physical fitness.
9. Technology-Based Play:
 As technology becomes more prevalent, children may engage in play using
electronic devices. This could involve educational games, interactive storytelling
apps, or creative platforms that allow them to express themselves digitally.
10. Social Play:
 Social interactions become more nuanced, and play provides opportunities for
children to navigate friendships and peer relationships. Group play activities can
include organized games, group projects, or simply spending time together.

MOST COMMON HEALTH PROBLEM IN SCHOOL AGE

Respiratory Infections:
Common colds, flu, and other respiratory infections are frequent occurrences in school-age
children due to their close proximity in classrooms. Good hygiene practices, such as
handwashing, can help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses.
Asthma:

Asthma is a chronic condition characterized by inflammation of the airways, leading to difficulty

in breathing. Triggers can include respiratory infections, allergens, and environmental factors.
Proper management and awareness are crucial for children with asthma.
Allergies:

Allergic reactions to substances like pollen, dust mites, animal dander, or certain foods can
manifest in symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and congestion. Allergies may affect a child's
overall well-being and concentration.
Dental Issues:

Dental problems, including cavities and gum issues, are common among school-age children.
Regular dental check-ups, proper oral hygiene practices, and a balanced diet are essential for
maintaining good oral health.
Vision and Hearing Problems:

Vision and hearing issues, such as myopia (nearsightedness) or hearing loss, can impact a
child's academic performance and social interactions. Regular screenings can help identify and
address these problems early.
Obesity:

Childhood obesity is a significant health concern, often linked to poor diet and insufficient
physical activity. It can contribute to various health issues, including diabetes, cardiovascular
problems, and low self-esteem.
Injuries:

Accidents and injuries, such as falls, cuts, and sports-related injuries, are common among
active school-age children. Supervision, safety measures, and proper equipment can help
reduce the risk of injuries.
Mental Health Issues:

Mental health problems, including anxiety, depression, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity

disorder (ADHD), can affect school-age children. Early detection and appropriate support are
crucial for managing mental health concerns.
Infectious Diseases:

While vaccination efforts have significantly reduced the prevalence of certain infectious
diseases, outbreaks of conditions like chickenpox or strep throat can still occur in school
settings.
Reproductive Health Education Needs:

As children approach adolescence, it becomes important to address reproductive health

education needs, including puberty, menstruation, and basic sex education.

SUGGESTED PLAY
1. Board Games and Card Games:
 Encourage children to play board games or card games that involve rules,
strategy, and social interaction. This can enhance cognitive skills, critical thinking,
and cooperation.
2. Outdoor Play:
 Foster physical activity through outdoor play. Activities such as biking, playing
tag, jumping rope, or participating in organized sports help develop gross motor
skills and overall fitness.
3. Imaginative Play:
 Support creative play by providing materials for imaginative activities. This could
include costumes for role-playing, building forts, or engaging in make-believe
scenarios.
4. Arts and Crafts:
 Provide art supplies for drawing, painting, and crafting. Creative activities allow
children to express themselves, enhance fine motor skills, and develop an
appreciation for aesthetics.
5. Constructive Play:
 Encourage building and construction activities with toys like LEGO sets, building
blocks, or modeling clay. These activities promote problem-solving skills and
spatial awareness.
6. Educational Games:
 Introduce educational games that align with school subjects. Math games, word
games, and puzzles can make learning fun and reinforce academic skills.
7. Reading:
 Cultivate a love for reading by providing age-appropriate books. Create a cozy
reading corner, participate in reading challenges, and engage in discussions
about the stories.
8. Science Experiments:
 Conduct simple and safe science experiments at home or in a controlled
environment. This can spark curiosity, promote inquiry-based learning, and
develop a scientific mindset.
9. Sports and Team Games:
 Engage in sports activities or team games to promote teamwork, sportsmanship,
and physical fitness. Soccer, basketball, and relay races are examples of
activities that enhance coordination and social skills.
10. Music and Dance:
  Encourage musical activities such as playing instruments, singing, or dancing.
Music and movement contribute to emotional expression, coordination, and
rhythm.
11. Technology-Based Play:
 Use educational apps and games that are age-appropriate and promote learning.
This can include interactive educational programs, coding games, or creative
apps for digital storytelling.
12. Role-Playing and Pretend Play:
 Allow children to engage in role-playing activities. This could involve playing
"house," creating a pretend store, or acting out scenarios that stimulate creativity
and social skills.
13. Board Games and Puzzles:
 Board games and puzzles can be entertaining and educational. They encourage
critical thinking, problem-solving, and social interaction.
14. Scavenger Hunts:
 Organize scavenger hunts, either indoors or outdoors, to promote exploration,
problem-solving, and teamwork.
15. Gardening:
 Involve children in gardening activities. Planting seeds, caring for plants, and
observing the growth process can teach responsibility and environmental
awareness.