Physical Development in

Adolescent Children

A Timeline of Milestones in Children Ages 8-11 Years

Group 3: John K., Nicole G. and Kelly R.

Development of 4th and 5th Grade

Learners Across Contexts

Physical Development in AdoloscentsA Timeline of Milestons in Children 8-11 Years Old

Physical, Emotional and Cognitive Changes in Children 8-11 Years Old

African Americans mature about one year prior to other ethnic groups.

With the increase in weight, more girls are entering maturation earlier.

US Department of Health

During this time of maturation, girls often suffer emotional challenges.

Boys tend to be more self-conscious about their height.

Gallup Poles

Organized sports can help increase self-confidence in both boys and girls.

Gallup Poles

Physical Development in AdoloscentsA Timeline of Milestons in Children 8-11 Years Old

Physical, Emotional and Cognitive Changes in Children 8-11 Years Old

    Teachers can promote positive physical development by first speaking with students regarding the changes that are taking place. As mentioned in the text (Child Development), American children are largely uneducated about the physical changes that take place in their bodies. Because of this, when their bodies do undergo these changes they often become embarrassed, self conscious and depressed. It is equally important to note the changes that occur across cultures. Particularly, African American girls experience maturation faster than other ethnicities. Also girls who have a high body fat count or participate less in physical activities also experience maturation early.     By discussing the changes openly with students, you take away the shame. They realize that the changes they are experiencing are normal and they are not alone in their experiences.     It is also important to help build self esteem. The text also mentions how young girls can develop eating disorders at a younger age because they start to become self conscious. By working on children's self-esteem, you can help them create a better self-image.      Although the maturation process begins much later for boys, most of them beyond the age of 11, you should still address preadolescent changes that are taking place in their bodies. They too become self conscious, especially in comparison to other boys who might mature early. Overall, we feel the best way a teacher can promote positive physical development is to be open and unafraid to address the concerns of their students.

Physical Development in AdoloscentsA Timeline of Milestons in Children 8-11 Years Old

The Sexual Maturation of Adolescents

It’s important to give girls a voice. Allow them to ask questions about the changes that are taking place in their bodies.

It is equally important to make boys aware of these changes and encourage them to be respectful.

Teachers should provide information and resources to parents and encourage them to talk to their children about the developing changes in their children’s bodies.

http://www.4parents.gov/sexdevt/

http://www.selfhelpmagazine.com/articles/sexual-development.php

Too Tall? Too Short? Too Fat? To Thin? A Guide to Growth and Sexual Development of Children

By Alan Schindler

The Sexual Maturation of Adolescents

    Physical development and changes between the ages of 8 and 11 can be very hard for children. Many do not know or understand the changes that are happening. It is important that teachers provide an honest and open dialogue with students and parents about the changes that are happening. It is also important to let students know that it is ok to ask questions about the changes that are happening to their bodies.We also believe it is crucial to stress the importance of respect during this time. Females tend to start the outward physical changes much sooner than their male counterparts. This can be especially difficult for them. As a male teacher, I think providing them with a familiar female in the school that they would be comfortable discussing these physical changes would be a good idea.    For the males, it's vital to teach them to realize that the changes that are happening to the females are natural and that respect is needed when interacting with females during this time. Males should be taught that the changes that are happening to them are natural and happen to all males. Allowing males to ask questions and be given honest answers is also vital.

These are milestones in a child’s life. We must be open and honest with them about these changes. We must also encourage them and be positive through this transition.