Chapter 12 follows a child's physical growth and development during the elementary school years. In this chapter, the authors:
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Point out factors that influence height and weight and variations in growth
in middle childhood
Outline nutritional requirements and discuss their relationship to physiological and cognitive growth and development
Discuss childhood obesity and body image
Describe gender differences in motor skills, and discuss the role of organized sports and rough-and-tumble play
Identify health and safety concerns and present recommendations for improving children's health and fitness
Discuss how children's understanding of health and illness develops and how cultural attitudes affect health care