The parent of a 7-year-old child telephones the nurse at the child’s school and states, “My child has had a stomachache and headache every morning this week. Is there a virus going around the school?”
Which of the following responses would be appropriate for the nurse to make at this time? Select all that apply

School-age children are in a period of rapid developmental change, particularly in motor skills, attention span, and social maturity. While they may share interests, their physical and cognitive capabilities differ significantly by age.

Rationale for correct answer:

2. A 6-year-old and a 9-year-old are at different developmental stages. The older child typically has better coordination, attention span, and understanding of rules, which gives them a distinct advantage. Placing them on different teams ensures each child is matched with peers at a similar developmental level, supporting both safety and positive skill development.

Rationale for incorrect answers:

1. While having both boys on the same team may be more convenient for the parent, convenience should not outweigh developmental appropriateness and safety.
3. Although both are school-age, there's a wide developmental range within this group. Treating it as a single category oversimplifies their abilities.
4. Sibling rivalry is not the primary concern here; the issue is developmental readiness and appropriate team placement.

Take home points

• Grouping children in sports should be based on developmental stage, not just age category.
• A 3-year age difference in school-age children often reflects significant physical and cognitive differences.
• Placement with similar-age peers supports skill development, safety, and enjoyment.
• Parental convenience is secondary to the child’s developmental needs and safety in team sports.

Social development in the school-age child (ages 6–12) is marked by a shift from family-focused relationships to increasing interest in peer groups and the outside world. Children at this stage seek approval from peers, form friendships often with those of the same gender, and begin to value group norms, fairness, and belonging. Peer groups play a critical role in developing identity, self-esteem, and social skills.

Rationale for correct answers:

1. School-age children begin to develop relationships with teachers, classmates, and community members. They become more independent, socially curious, and eager to explore beyond the immediate family unit.

3. At this age, children tend to form same-gender peer groups, such as sports teams or clubs. This is a developmentally normal way to explore identity and friendship within a comfortable social framework.

5. Friendships during this period are often close and emotionally significant, commonly formed between children of the same gender. These relationships support emotional development, communication skills, and empathy.

Rationale for incorrect answers:

2. Interest in the opposite sex typically becomes more apparent during adolescence, not in early or middle childhood. School-age children often show a preference for same-gender interactions and may even view the opposite gender with disinterest or aversion.

4. School-age children usually strive to fit in with peers, not to stand out. They often conform to group norms to gain acceptance and avoid rejection. Standing out may cause discomfort or anxiety during this stage.

Take home points

• Peer relationships are central to the social development of school-age children.
• Children often prefer same-sex friends and clubs, helping to form a sense of belonging and identity.
• School-age children value group approval and tend to conform to group norms.
• Nurses and educators should encourage positive peer interaction and support the development of healthy friendships during this critical stage.