Middle childhood, also known as the school-age period, is a crucial stage of development where children undergo significant physical changes. During this time children begin to develop lifelong habits that can impact their health and wellness. As a parent, caregiver, or educator, it is essential to provide children with the necessary tools and resources to develop healthy habits that promote optimal growth and development. This health and wellness section will explore various topics related to middle childhood, including nutrition, physical activity and safety, to help support children in leading healthy and happy lives.

9.9.1 Bedwetting

Nine-year-old Sara has been struggling with bedwetting for several months. She’s embarrassed to talk about it with her friends and family, and she’s afraid they’ll make fun of her if they find out. Sara often avoids sleepovers or camping trips because she’s worried she’ll wet the bed and be humiliated in front of others. She feels ashamed and alone, and wishes she could stop bedwetting.

Bedwetting, also known as nocturnal enuresis, is a common condition among children in middle childhood, with about 10% of children experiencing it (Walker, 2019). While bedwetting can affect any child, there are some factors that may increase the likelihood of a child experiencing it. The causes of bedwetting can be both physical and psychological. Here are some possible factors that increase the likelihood of a child experiencing bedwetting:

• Delayed development: Sometimes, the bladder control mechanism of a child may not have fully developed, leading to bedwetting.
• Genetics: Bedwetting tends to run in families, so genetics may play a role in some cases.
• Urinary tract infections: UTIs can cause bedwetting by increasing the frequency of urination and reducing the child’s bladder capacity.
• Sleep disorders: Certain sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, can cause bedwetting by disrupting the child’s sleep.
• Constipation: When a child is constipated, it can put pressure on the bladder, causing bedwetting.
• Psychological issues: Bedwetting can also be caused by psychological issues such as anxiety, stress, or trauma.
• Hormonal imbalances: In some cases, bedwetting can be caused by hormonal imbalances that affect the production of a hormone called vasopressin, which regulates the body’s water balance.
• Gender: Bedwetting is more common in boys than in girls.

Bedwetting is a common condition and often resolves on its own. However, if it persists or is causing significant distress to the child or family, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment options. There are several treatment options available for bedwetting, depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Here are some possible treatment options:

• Bedwetting alarms: These are devices that sound an alarm when the child wets the bed, waking them up so they can go to the bathroom. Over time, this can help the child learn to recognize the sensation of a full bladder and wake up to use the bathroom.
• Medications: There are several medications that can help reduce bedwetting, such as desmopressin, which reduces the amount of urine the body produces at night, and imipramine, which helps the bladder hold more urine.
• Bladder training: This involves a structured program of gradually increasing the amount of time between bathroom visits, with the goal of increasing the child’s bladder capacity and reducing the frequency of bedwetting.
• Behavioral therapy: This may involve rewarding the child for dry nights, using positive reinforcement to encourage them to use the bathroom before bed, and addressing any underlying stress or anxiety that may be contributing to the bedwetting.
• Dietary changes: Reducing the amount of fluids the child consumes before bedtime, and avoiding caffeine and sugary drinks can help reduce the likelihood of bedwetting.

Let’s check in about Sara, who has been experiencing bedwetting. Sara may experience some anxiety or embarrassment because of bedwetting, and it may interrupt her social development. ​​Sara’s parents can take several steps to support her through her struggles with bedwetting. First, they can create a safe and supportive environment by letting her know that bedwetting is a common issue and that they’re there to support her. They can assure her that they won’t judge or criticize her, and that they’re committed to helping her find a solution. Second, they can encourage open communication by listening to her without judgment and offering empathy and support. Third, they can seek medical advice to explore treatment options that may help reduce or eliminate bedwetting. Fourth, they can use protective bedding such as waterproof mattress covers and sheets to help protect her bedding and make cleanup easier. Finally, if Sara is experiencing teasing or bullying related to her bedwetting, her parents can work with her school or other caregivers to address the issue and ensure that she feels safe and supported. With some preparation and support, she can still enjoy social events like slumber parties without feeling embarrassed or ashamed. Overall, by creating a supportive and non-judgmental environment, seeking appropriate medical advice and treatment, and helping Sara feel understood, accepted, and supported, her parents can play a vital role in helping her manage her bedwetting and cope with any related challenges.

9.9.2 Bicycles and Community Safety

Imagine a sunny afternoon in a suburban neighborhood. The school day has just ended, and a group of middle school kids are out riding their bikes. They’re a mix of boys and girls, ranging in age from 11 to 14 years old. They’re all wearing helmets and brightly colored shirts, and they’re chatting and laughing as they ride. The group is riding in a pack, taking turns leading the way and shouting out directions. They’re weaving in and out of driveways and cul-de-sacs, performing small jumps and tricks as they go. They’re all riding different types of bikes, from shiny new mountain bikes to old, rusty hand-me-downs, but everyone seems to be having a good time.

As they ride, the kids stop occasionally to take a break or to check out something interesting along the way. They might stop to pick up a stray stick or to examine a flower growing in someone’s yard. Occasionally, a parent or neighbor will wave as they ride past, but otherwise, the kids are left to their own devices. Despite their different backgrounds and interests, the kids all seem to have a common bond in their love for riding their bikes. They’re enjoying the freedom and independence that comes with being out on their bikes, and they’re relishing the feeling of the wind in their hair and the sun on their faces.

As they ride on, the kids continue to explore their neighborhood, taking in the sights and sounds around them. They’re building memories that they’ll cherish for years to come, and they’re developing important skills and habits that will serve them well in their future adventures on two wheels.

Bicycling is an important skill for youth for several reasons. First, it is a great way for children to get exercise and stay active. Biking is a low-impact form of exercise that can improve cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles, and help maintain a healthy weight. By developing cycling skills at a young age, children are more likely to continue cycling throughout their lives and enjoy the many health benefits that come with it. Second, cycling is a form of transportation that is both environmentally friendly and cost-effective. By promoting cycling as a mode of transportation, we can help reduce traffic congestion, air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. This is especially important in urban areas where traffic can be a major problem.

Finally, bicycling is a fun and enjoyable activity that can help children develop independence, confidence, and social skills. Cycling can be a great way for children to explore their neighborhood, spend time with friends, and enjoy the outdoors. By developing cycling skills, children can gain a sense of independence and self-sufficiency that will serve them well throughout their lives.

9.9.2.1 Inequities in bicycle safety

Unfortunately, there are often inequities in bicycle safety in communities. Certain communities may not have access to safe cycling infrastructure, such as bike lanes or protected paths, which can make it more dangerous for people to ride their bikes. This can be especially true in low-income or minority neighborhoods where infrastructure investment may not be a priority.

In addition, there may be disparities in access to education and resources related to bicycle safety. For example, children in wealthier communities may have access to bicycle safety education programs or more resources for purchasing helmets or bicycles, while children in low-income communities may not. Furthermore, people of color and low-income communities may face additional challenges related to traffic enforcement and policing. For example, police may be more likely to target people of color for traffic stops or other enforcement actions, which can create a hostile environment for cyclists.

9.9.2.2 Bicycle safety curriculum in public schools

When it comes to teaching bicycle safety to elementary school children, there are a lot of ways that schools can help. For example, they can offer bicycle safety education programs that teach children about safe cycling practices and the importance of wearing helmets. They can also provide resources for parents, like brochures or pamphlets, that outline safe cycling practices and tips for choosing the right helmet. Another great idea is for schools to host bike rodeos, which are fun events where children can practice safe cycling skills and learn about bicycle safety. By making it engaging and enjoyable, children are more likely to remember the important safety tips. Promoting active transportation is also a great way for schools to encourage bicycle safety. Encouraging children to ride their bikes to school can help them develop good cycling habits and can also help reduce traffic congestion around schools. Plus, it’s a great way to get exercise and fresh air before school! Lastly, schools can set a good example by promoting safe cycling practices themselves. This can include ensuring that school buses and cars follow safe driving practices around cyclists, providing secure bike parking facilities, and encouraging staff to wear helmets when riding bikes. By modeling safe cycling practices, schools can help instill good habits in their students.

All of these ideas can be effective in teaching bicycle safety to elementary school children. By working together, we can help ensure that children are safe when riding their bikes and develop good habits for a lifetime of safe cycling.

9.9.3 Safety in Sports

Sports safety for elementary kids is important to prevent injuries and ensure that they have a positive experience with physical activity. There are some key factors to consider.

9.9.3.1 Proper Equipment

Equipment needed will depend on the sport the child is participating in. For example, if the child is playing soccer, they will need shin guards to protect their lower legs, while if they are riding a bike, they will need a properly fitted helmet. Equipment that is too big or too small can be ineffective and potentially dangerous. It’s also important to ensure that the equipment is in good condition. For example, a bike helmet with cracks or other damage may not be able to protect the child in the event of a fall. Finally, it’s important to make sure that the child wears the appropriate equipment every time they participate in the sport. Even if they are just practicing or playing with friends, the risk of injury is still present. Encouraging children to wear their equipment consistently can help them develop good safety habits that will stay with them throughout their lives.

9.9.3.2 Warm-Up, cool down, and stretch

A proper warm-up is essential to prevent injury in sports for elementary kids. A warm-up prepares the body for physical activity by increasing blood flow, raising the body temperature, and loosening up the muscles, tendons, and ligaments. A good warm-up should be tailored to the specific sport and the child’s level of fitness. It should typically include a combination of low-intensity aerobic exercise, such as jogging or jumping jacks, and dynamic stretching, which involves movements that mimic the movements of the sport. The warm-up should gradually increase in intensity and duration, and should never be rushed. Rushing through a warm-up or skipping it altogether can increase the risk of injury, especially for children who are still developing their physical coordination and control. When the workout is complete, a cool-down ensures proper time for the muscles to transition to a state of rest. It can help to reduce muscle soreness, prevent injury, promote recovery, and regulate body temperature. Children should be encouraged to take their time and never rush through a warm-up and cool-down, or skip them altogether.

9.9.3.3 Supervision.

Supervision is a critical component of sports safety for elementary kids. Children at this age are still developing their physical coordination and may not have the experience to recognize and avoid potentially dangerous situations. A responsible adult should be present during all sports activities to ensure that the children are following the rules of the game, playing safely, and staying hydrated. The adult can also step in if there is a dispute between players or if a child becomes injured or ill. In some sports, such as contact sports, the presence of a responsible adult is particularly important to ensure that proper safety procedures are followed. For example, in football, coaches and referees are trained to recognize the signs of concussion and take appropriate action if a player is injured. In the absence of adult supervision, children may not recognize the signs of a concussion or may not report it to their parents or guardians. Finally, supervision can help to prevent bullying or other forms of negative behavior that can occur in sports. A responsible adult can recognize and intervene in situations where a child is being mistreated, and work with the child and other players to resolve the issue.

9.9.3.4 Nutrition and Hydration.

Proper nutrition and hydration are crucial for sports safety for elementary kids. During physical activity, the body uses energy and fluids to maintain performance, and without proper nutrition and hydration, children may experience fatigue, dehydration, and a decreased ability to concentrate, which can increase their risk of injury. It’s important to encourage children to eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. These foods provide the necessary vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that help to support healthy growth, energy, and overall health. In addition to eating well, children should also stay hydrated before, during, and after physical activity. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, dizziness, and muscle cramps, which can increase the risk of injury. Children should be encouraged to drink water or a sports drink containing electrolytes before and during activity, particularly in hot weather or when they are engaging in high-intensity activities. Certain sports, such as gymnastics or wrestling, may require children to maintain a specific weight or body type. In these cases, it’s important to work with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to develop a safe and healthy eating plan that supports optimal performance without compromising health or safety.

9.9.3.5 Rest and Recovery.

Proper rest between activities is important to prevent injury in sports for elementary kids. Rest allows the body to recover from the physical demands of the previous activity and prepares the body for the next activity. Proper rest reduces the risk of overuse injuries. Rest allows the body to recover from the repetitive motions and stresses of physical activity, which can help to reduce the risk of overuse injuries, such as tendinitis, stress fractures, and muscle strains. Proper rest can help to prevent fatigue, which can reduce a child’s ability to concentrate and respond to their environment, increasing their risk of injury. Rest can also help to provide mental recovery, allowing a child to decompress and recharge between activities. The amount of rest needed between activities can vary depending on the intensity and duration of the activity, as well as the child’s age and physical condition. As a general rule, children should be encouraged to take breaks every 60 minutes of physical activity, and to engage in different types of physical activity to avoid overuse injuries.

9.9.3.6 Proper Technique

Proper technique is essential to prevent injury in sports for elementary kids. Using correct technique can help to minimize the risk of injury by reducing the stress and strain placed on the body during physical activity. Using proper technique can help to reduce the strain on joints by maintaining proper alignment and reducing the amount of force placed on the joints. This can help to prevent overuse injuries, such as tendinitis, as well as acute injuries, such as sprains or dislocations. Using proper technique can also improve balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falls or collisions with other players. Finally, using proper technique can help to prevent compensations, which occur when the body tries to compensate for a weakness or imbalance by shifting the stress to another area of the body. This can lead to injuries such as muscle strains or sprains.

Safety in sports is crucial for elementary kids. While participating in sports can provide numerous benefits such as physical fitness, socialization, and improved mental health, it’s essential to prioritize safety to prevent injuries. A safe sports environment includes proper equipment, adequate supervision, proper nutrition and hydration, appropriate warm-up and cool-down, and rest between activities. Additionally, teaching proper technique and promoting a culture of safety can also help to prevent injuries. By implementing these measures, we can ensure that children can enjoy the many benefits of sports while minimizing the risk of injury.