It wasn’t long ago that your little boy or girl struggled to fill out those baggy t-shirts. Their developing body was full of scrawny potential. Now, they are stronger, taller, and more capable of things they could only dream of doing a few years ago. Your son or daughter is growing up fast! These last few years of elementary school are full of physical changes that will excite and concern all of you.
It’s possible that your child has become very skilled in certain physical activities. They can probably run well, jump, dribble, throw a ball with ease, and jump rope without a problem. These are developmental signs that things are right on track for your growing child. Some things will still prove difficult, but speed, force, and control are becoming a polished part of your child’s physical skillset. They are able to accomplish more than ever and will want you to see what they can do.
As fun as those physical accomplishments can be, kids this age will experience physical firsts, too. Puberty may have arrived, and for girls, this means the beginning of menstruation. Some girls start as early as age nine. For most, it will happen around 11 or 12. Don’t ignore this. Your daughter needs you to walk with her through this major change. It can be a scary time and a major adjustment. Hormones will be flying. Don’t ask her to navigate this solo. Sit and listen to her when she raises concerns. Remind her that it’s all natural and normal.
To keep your child healthy, make sure they eat well, sleep a lot, and exercise routinely. A few minutes per day is not enough activity. Get them up and moving for at least an hour each day. Get them to the doctor for checkups. Take them to the dentist. About 25 percent of human growth happens during puberty, so prioritizing healthy habits now will set them up for a better adulthood.
Changes are coming, but they are good changes. Middle school is around the corner so soak up as many of these final “little kid” moments as you can. Check out this video from our Child Development Series and get involved today.
Huddle up with your kids and ask, “What about your body do you love the most?”