Physical Changes in Childhood

Physical growth in mid-childhood is characterised by a 'mid-growth spurt' followed by a general deceleration [slowing down] of body and skeletal growth compared with the rapid speed experienced during infancy.  Between the ages of six and 13, the following physical changes occur:

• Permanent molar teeth appear.
• Muscle mass and strength increase.
• Fine and gross motor skills improve.
• Male-female sex differences emerge in bone strength and muscularity.
• The 'adrenarche' stage of sexual development begins, which tends to precede puberty by two years.

(DelGiudice, 2018)

Middle and late childhood are generally periods of excellent health. However, there are particular risks during childhood. In New Zealand, motor vehicle accidents are the most common cause of unintentional injury death for this age group, and 'neoplasms' such as leukemia are the most common medical cause of death. 

New Zealand is currently experiencing a childhood 'obesity epidemic'. More than 33% of young people between the age 2 and 14 of are clinically obese, and this is seen disproportionately in Maori and Pasifika communities (Chiavaroli, Gibbins, Cutfield, & Derraik, 2019).  Childhood obesity is a risk factor for low rates of self-esteem and impaired cognitive development (Wang & Veugelers, 2008).