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Running head: DEVELOPMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND THE SCHOOL-AGED CHILD

Developmental Assessment and the School-Aged Child Student A. Sample Grand Canyon University: NRS-434VN

DEVELOPMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND THE SCHOOL-AGED CHILD

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Developmental Assessment and the School-Aged Child Children differ in growth and development by age. Expected assessment findings differ as well. According to Falkner (2018), there are many cognitive, physical, emotional, and psychological changes during each phase of childhood. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the comparison of physical assessment among school-aged children, assessment techniques based on age and development stage of a child, developmental stages of 11-year-old child, and child assessment based on Erickson’s developmental theory. The author will also explain the strategies that would be used to gain cooperation during the assessment. Physical Assessment of the School-Aged Child Growth charts have been used in the United States since 1977 (CDC, 2010). While using the growth charts, nurses also need to remember that children’s physical growth and development may vary and depending on genetic background, nutrition and activities/exercise. Physically, children of a same age may have different heights and weights. Children develop a sense of body image around age of six. As they become more aware of their bodies, they may complain of headache, abdominal or arm/leg pain. Sedentary habits can cause obesity and increase risk for heart disease in adulthood. Cognitively, early to school-aged children know simple words and learn to use more complex sentences as they grow. Older children may be involved in physical activities which increases risk of physical injuries. The nurse should modify assessment techniques to match the age and developmental stage of child. Developmental Stage of 11-year-old Child The author of this paper chose the 11 year old child to assess his/her developmental stages. Physically, the 11 year old has growth spurt and the signs of puberty, such as hair growth on face, underarms and pubic area, body fat increases and breast enlargement can be seen in

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girls. Girls may have their first menstrual periods by this age. Developing of decision-making skills and behavioral changes occur in emotional development stage. In social development, friendship is very important in this age group. The 11 year old has more interest in friends and explores identity through styling of hair, clothing, and hobbies. According to cognitive development, the 11 year old may have better understanding of thought process, will take responsibilities and will show dedication to their interests. Developmental Assessment using Erickson’s Developmental Theory According to Erikson’s theory Industry versus Inferiority is the fourth stage which explains the developmental changes occur in school-aged children. In this stage, “the child is acquiring new skills and abilities in the school setting, while developing relationships with peers. In addition, they are developing a sense of pride associated with their capabilities and, if encouraged, developing confidence and positive self-esteem” (Falkner, 2018). In this stage, encouragement is very important because they begin to feel competent and confident in their ability to achieve goals. Children in this stage also find out that failure is also a part of growing process and it is very important to learn that if they win in any game, they also must learn the ability to face the defeat as well. For better outcomes, the author will offer explanation during the assessment, for example, she can tell children that sugary soda can make you sick rather than saying that it will cause diabetes. Young children usually don’t get abstract idea, so she will explain about the detail of assessment or any procedure (injections or vaccinations) according to their developmental age. Word “injection” is a better choice to use rather than using word “shot” because word shot can make children nervous, and they may think of gunshot.

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Several strategies are helpful in gaining cooperation of an 11 year old child. First, communication strategies such as talking at the child’s level, using open-ended questions, using understandable vocabulary and language, active listening, and watching for verbal and nonverbal cues will help the nurse conduct a successful assessment. Next, providing a non-threatening and comfortable environment will encourage children and parents to cooperate fully. Lastly, being familiar with pediatric assessment tools such as normal milestones by age, delays in growth, developmental disabilities, and risky behaviors will give the nurse additional tools in the completion of the assessment. In summary, children differ in growth and development by age. Nurses can assess children using growth charts, pediatric assessment tools and effective communication techniques and strategies to gain cooperation of children and their parents to get correct and detailed health information. The eight stages of the Erikson’s developmental theory are very helpful to assess the children physical, cognitive, emotional and social growth.

DEVELOPMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND THE SCHOOL-AGED CHILD References Falkner, A. (2018). Age-Appropriate Approach to Pediatric Health Care Assessment. Retrieved from https://lc.gcumedia.com/nrs434vn/health-assessment-foundations-for-effectivepractice/v1.1/#/chapter/2 National Center for Health Statistics. (2010). Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/growthcharts/index.htm

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