Physical Development School-Aged Children

Physical Development 6-8 Generally weigh between 40-65 lbs. Average weight gain 3-6 lbs/year Have long arms and legs, may look gawky Amount of food needed based on activity More exposure to people leads to more common illnesses (chicken pox, measles, etc) Baby teeth replaced by adult teeth Need 10-12 hours sleep Have a large amount of energy exercise using large muscles helps use this up

Large Motor Development Generally have better control over large muscles than small muscles Enjoy testing muscle strength Good sense of balance Develop more Muscle and less fat

Large Motor Skills Throws and catches ball with more ease and accuracy Running Climbing In-line skating Bike riding Other skills related to team sports

Large Motor Activities Kick Ball Parachute – Sharks and Lifeguards Gaga Frisbee Soccer Etc.

Small Motor Development Developing small motor skills and hand eye coordination so projects may appear messy Children feel more successful when they switch back and forth between large and small motor activities Copies designs, shapes, letters, and numbers

Small Motor Skills Builds block towers to shoulder height Cuts, pastes, molds, and colors skillfully Writes entire words (including name) Drawing more controlled Cursive writing Use scissors and small tools well Can tie shoes

Small Motor Activities Marshmallow bridges/buildings Pipe cleaner sculptures Balloon piñatas Pottery