Late childhood, defined as ages 9 to 12 or 'preteens', is characterized by early puberty with girls physically maturing faster than boys. This stage includes changes in physical development, increased coordination, and growing concerns about physical appearance, leading to potential insecurities. Caregivers and educators should encourage physical activity, provide healthy eating options, and foster emotional connections to support children during this transitional period.

1. LATE CHILDHOOD
(THE INTERMEDIATE
SCHOOLER)
Prepared by:
Guingayan, Marivic P.

2. How do you define Intermediate
Schoolers?
Late childhood is generally defined as ages 9
to 12
May call this stage as “Preteens”
Playful
Physically active

3. PHYSICAL
DEVELOPMENT OF THE
INTERMEDIATE
SCHOOLERS

4. Early Puberty
On the average, girls are generally as
much as two (2) years ahead of boys in
terms of physical maturity.
Puberty’s changes start when the brain
triggers the production of sex hormones.

5. Changes During Early Puberty
GIRLS
Small lumps from behind the nipple may occur, which
sometimes could be painful but eventually the pain
goes away.
The vulva starts in increase a bit.
The vagina gets longer
The uterus gets bigger
Hairs will start to grow in the armpit and pubic area

6. BOYS
May also have swelling on their chest but tend to go
away within a year.
Subtle increase in testicles size
Penis and scrotum starts to grow
Semen may be released when he is awake or even
during asleep
Hair will start to grow and become ticker
New hair will start to grow in the armpit and pubic area
around genitals
May start developing chest and facial hair

7. Height, Weight and Muscle
Development
Many of the bodily structures like the liver, muscles,
skeletons, kidneys and face follow a normal curve of
development for both girls and boys
Increase in bodily fat
Girls appear to be “chubby” while the boys tend to
have more lean body mass per inch of height than
girls

8. MOTOR SKILLS
During this stage, movements or the muscles and
bones become more coordinated
From the age of 8, children show greater
coordination in writing.
At the age of 10-11 years. Most children will have
learned to play sports like swimming, basketball,
volleyball and running.

9. INSECURITIES
At this stage. Children may become very concerned
about their physical appearance.
Girls especially, may become concerned about their
weight and decide to eat less. Boys may become
aware of their stature and muscle size and strength.

10. Implication to Child-care, Education, and
Parenting
During this stage, children are more physically active
however they still have a lot of physical maturity to
undergo. Here are some points to consider for health-
care providers, teachers and parents:
Provide sample opportunities at home and in school
for physical exercises and sports.
Encourage children to participate on varied
worthwhile activities until they are able to discover
the ones they are interested in.

11. Develop a strong emotional attachment with your
children so as to address any insecurities and social
concerns.
Since children in this stage have more control over
their eating habits, provide them healthier food
choices.