Growth and Development

Physical Maturation School-age children experience slow, progressive growth, gaining an average of 2 to 3 kg (4–7 lb) and growing 5 to 7 cm (2–2.5 in) per year. The immune system reaches adult levels of immunoglobulins around age 10, respiratory rates decrease as breathing becomes diaphragmatic, and blood pressure increases while the pulse rate decreases.

Developmental Stages

• Psychosocial (Erikson): The primary task is Industry vs. Inferiority. Children develop a sense of self-worth by acquiring skills and succeeding in tasks at school and home. If expectations are too high or support is lacking, feelings of inferiority may develop,.

• Cognitive (Piaget): Children enter the Concrete Operat ...