Page 568 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

c. Height ranges from 45 inches (115 cm) at age 6 years to
59 inches (150 cm) at age 12 years.
d. School-age children gain weight at a rate of about 4.5
to 6.5 pounds (2 to 3 kg) per year.
e. Average weight is 46 pounds (21 kg) at age 6 years
and 88 pounds (40 kg) at age 12 years.
f. The first permanent (secondary) teeth erupt around
age 6 years, and deciduous teeth are lost gradually.

g. Regular dentist visits are necessary, and the

school-age child needs to be
h. Supervised with brushing and flossing teeth; fluoride
supplements may be necessary if the water is not
fluoridated.
i. For school-age children with primary and permanent
dentition, the best toothbrush is one with soft nylon
bristles and an overall length of about 6 inches (15
cm).
j. Sleep requirements range from 10 to 12 hours a night.
2. Vital signs (Box 18-11)
3. Nutrition
a. School-age children will have increased growth needs
as they approach adolescence.
b. Children require a balanced diet from foods in the
MyPlate food guide; healthy snacks should continue
to be emphasized to prevent childhood obesity (see
www.choosemyplate.gov).
c. Children still may be picky eaters but are usually
willing to try new foods.
4. Skills
a. School-age children exhibit refinement of fine motor
skills.
b. Development of gross motor skills continues.
c. Strength and endurance increase.
5. Play
a. Play is more competitive.
b. Rules and rituals are important aspects of play and
games.

c. The school-age child enjoys drawing, collecting

items, dolls, pets, guessing games, board games,
listening to the radio, TV, reading, watching videos or
DVDs, and computer games.
d. The child participates in team sports.
e. The child may participate in secret clubs, group peer
activities, and scout organizations.
6. Safety

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