Stages of Development Assessment and the Needs of School-Aged Child
The needs of the pediatric patient differ depending on age, as do the stages of development and the expected assessment findings for each stage. In a 500-750-word paper, examine the needs of a school-aged child between the ages of 5 and 12 years old and discuss the following:
Describe the different physical characteristics/findings within the school-aged child. Explain how you would modify assessment techniques to match the age and developmental stage of this child.
Choose a child between the ages of 5 and 12 years old. Identify the age of the child and describe the typical developmental stages of children that age.
Applying developmental theory based on Erickson, Piaget, or Kohlberg, explain how you would developmentally assess the child. Include how you would offer explanations during the assessment, strategies you would use to gain cooperation, and potential findings from the assessment.
You are required to cite a minimum of three peer-reviewed sources to complete this assignment. Sources must be published within the last 5 years, appropriate for the assignment criteria, and relevant to nursing practice.
Developmental Assessment and the School-Aged Child
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Children between the ages of 5 and 12 go through considerable physical, cognitive, social, and emotional changes throughout the school-aged period (Verywell Family, 2021). In order to offer accurate assessments and encourage cooperation during tests, pediatric healthcare providers must have a thorough awareness of this age group's distinctive features and developmental milestones.
Physical characteristics/findings
Children in elementary school average a yearly growth rate of about 2.5 inches until they experience a growth spurt in early adolescence. Between the ages of 6 and 13, they undergo a process of primary tooth loss and permanent tooth growth. At around 8 or 9 years old for girls and 10 or 11 years old for boys, puberty symptoms like pubic hair and sex organ development may begin to appear (Saracho, 2023). They must engage in regular physical activity if they are to avoid becoming obese or developing