Children (5-12 years)

Gross motor skills use larger muscles to help you perform basic movements such as walking, running, and jumping. In primary school, your child’s gross motor skills develop to allow for more speed and skill and improve body and object control. This allows for children to:

• improve coordination and balance
• develop social skills such as communication and teamwork
• develop emotional skills such as winning and losing graciously
• increase confidence in physical activities
• be exposed to new sports.

Children are introduced to basic movement skills in predictable scenarios in the early primary school years. They practice movement, balance and control as they learn how their body can move.

In the later primary years, children focus on the quality of these movements and adapt skills to new or more challenging settings. Children learn to perform these skills with more precision and apply movement to various games and sports in different sequences.

Fine motor skills involve the coordination of small muscles in the wrist, hand, fingers, and even toes. Fine motor skills help your child manipulate or move objects and interact with the world in more detail. They include:

• holding a pencil
• tying their shoelace
• cutting with scissors
• holding a glue stick
• typing on a keyboard.

In primary school, your child’s fine motor skills develop to allow for more accuracy, precision, skill, and speed. They also allow for children to:

• express their ideas
• showcase creativity
• become more independent
• communicate knowledge
• develop new skills or hobbies.

Language skills involve the ability to document, communicate, and understand thoughts, feelings, and needs through words, speech, and texts.

In the early primary school years, children focus on the foundations including learning to read and understand texts, as well as writing and forming basic sentences. 

In the later primary school years, children focus on developing the depth and breadth of their vocabulary. They develop their reading fluency and comprehension as well as develop their grammar and punctuation.

Developmental delay is treated with early intervention. Early intervention means providing support early to help children "catch up". This includes therapy, support, education, and monitoring from professionals such as: 

• occupational therapists  
• audiologists  
• physiotherapists  
• psychologists  
• speech pathologists  
• social workers.  

These professionals will help your child to develop the skills they need to thrive. Some children require less or no support as they get older due to early intervention.  

If you are concerned about the support for your child, talk to your doctor about the possibility of accessing support through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The NDIS provides funding to assist children under six years old with developmental delays in accessing therapy and support for early intervention. 

Neurodivergence is when a child’s brain functions differently from the majority of people who are at a similar age and stage. People who are neurodivergent may see the world differently from others. This includes diagnoses such as Autism and ADHD.

If your child is neurodivergent and you haven't already, talk to your doctor about accessing support through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The NDIS provides funding to assist children with neurodivergence to access therapy and support for early intervention as well as ongoing services. 

Regression is when your child goes backwards in their development and may behave, act or perform in a younger or needier way. Skill regression can occur at any age and may happen because children are in a new situation, such as attending preschool. Some skill regression is common; however, if you have concerns, speak to your family doctor or paediatrician. 

Your school-aged child is likely to have more independence than they have ever had before. This can be exciting, frustrating or stressful for you and your child. Although getting children involved may take longer to complete activities, it is crucial to their development as it:

• increases their confidence
• enhances motivation
• builds self-esteem
• helps problem-solving skills
• fosters empowerment.

You can build your child’s independence by providing opportunities where they can safely make choices or complete activities on their own. If giving your child choices, give a few appropriate options. Open-ended questions may result in undesirable answers that could lead you to refuse your child's choice because it is either unhealthy or impractical.

As your child becomes more aware of themselves and the world around them, they will develop a stronger sense of what is right and wrong. Children are likely to question things to figure out what is fair, equal, or just in different situations. 

Their morals and values guide their decisions, impact their behaviour and subsequently shape their identity. You can help your child develop good morals and values by demonstrating and encouraging them to be:

• honest
• respectful
• compassionate
• responsible
• generous
• cooperative
• caring.

As children become more aware of the world and experience new people and settings, they may develop fears that might be real or imagined. Children may have a fear of ghosts, the dark, or going to school. Even if you don’t necessarily find it threatening, take your child’s fear seriously, as it is quite real for them. You can:

• ask your child about their fear to find out what they are worried about in particular
• help your child put things into perspective
• be honest and truthful in an age-appropriate way
• provide reassurance that they are safe
• ask what would help alleviate the fear and implement strategy if appropriate. 

If your child’s fear or anxieties are disrupting their everyday life, talk to your local doctor for support and guidance. 

See the Mental health or the Anxiety disorders factsheet for more information.

Friendships are important as they provide children with opportunities to:  

• communicate and relate to others  
• practice strategies to manage their feelings and emotions  
• learn how to win and lose appropriately 
• practice overcoming disagreements or arguments with others  
• develop social skills such as empathy, patience, and sharing  
• gain a sense of belonging 
• grow their self-esteem. 

Making friends is one step towards gaining greater independence. Some children will easily make friends; others may find it more challenging. If your child is struggling to make connections with others, there are things you can do to increase opportunities to make friends:

• talk to your child’s school teacher to see if they can create opportunities for your child to play with someone with similar interests
• build your child’s self-confidence and self-esteem by pointing out their good qualities to make them better appreciate themselves 
• teach your child how to be a good friend 
• place your child in organised activities that involve other children, such as dancing, to allow them to meet new people whilst also getting active
• consider car-pooling with another child your child likes being around; this could also save you time and allow your child the time to develop stronger connections
• see if the school offers lunch clubs or after-school activities that they could join
• organise catch-ups with new people, such as a work colleague or an old friend with children of a similar age.

In addition to maximising opportunities to make friends, talk, engage and connect with your child to build stronger connections. You still have the largest influence on their growth and development at this age. 

In the primary school years, children are learning to share, regulate their emotions, and socialise with others. This can sometimes lead to disagreements and arguments and some children may be mean or rude. However, it is important to understand that there is a difference between disagreements and bullying.  

Bullying is considered to be intentional, repeated, aggressive behaviour toward someone. It is where an individual or group threaten, harm or control someone to cause harm or distress. It can take many forms and may include a combination of:

• verbal
• physical
• social
• cultural or
• cyberbullying.

Bullying can be harmful to a child's developing sense of self and mental health. Keep an eye out for warning signs and maintain an open line of communication to ensure your child is comfortable talking about potential issues or concerns. 

See Bullying for more on warning signs and how you can help support children who are being bullied or who are bullying.

Tap water is recommended as the drink of choice and is essential for hydration. Active children should be encouraged to drink regularly to make sure they do not feel thirsty. Children should be encouraged to keep a water bottle with them and to drink during activities such as sports.

Children aged 5 to 8 years are recommended to have 5 cups or 1.2 litres of water per day.

Children aged 9 to 13 years are recommended to have 6 cups or 1.5 litres of water per day.

Lunchboxes

As your child enters primary school, you will need to start packing a healthy lunchbox for their school day. Involving children in choosing or packing their lunch can be a fun healthy eating learning experience. A healthy lunchbox contains:

• a variety of food from the five food groups
• no discretionary items
• a refillable water bottle.

Ensure that children are confident with opening their lunchboxes, containers, or packets so they can access their food. Remember to pack any utensils your child may need, such as a fork or a spoon. You can pack ice bricks to keep food cool or use a thermos to keep food warm. 

See Food safety for information on keeping food at the right temperature.

Crunch&Sip

Your child’s school may participate in a program called ‘Crunch&Sip’ or similar initiatives such as ‘fruit breaks’. These programs are set times during the day for children to refuel with fruit or vegetables and rehydrate with water. Contact your child’s school to find out if they are participating. 

See Crunch&Sip for more information.

Puberty happens at different times for different people, and there is no way of knowing when your child will begin puberty. Your child will develop at their own pace; however, girls tend to start puberty earlier than boys. The age range when puberty happening includes:

• girls: generally, between 8 to 13 years
• boys: generally, between 9 to 14 years.

Puberty won’t happen overnight. Your child will experience hormonal changes before physical changes gradually occur. 

Puberty can take anywhere between 18 months and five years to complete. Your child’s body will develop at the right pace for them. However, if you are concerned about your child’s development or the onset of puberty is before or after these ranges, speak to your family doctor.

The increase in hormones in your child will trigger the following physical changes in females: 

• breasts: breasts will start to develop as small buds under the nipples. The skin around the nipple called the areola, will get bigger and darker and may grow hair. It is normal for breast buds to feel tender or sensitive while growing. Crop tops and training bras can be worn to give extra support.
• body shape: the pelvis (or hips) gets wider, and her body may become curvier
• hair: hair on the arms and legs gets darker. Hair will also start to grow around the vulva and underarms. There may also be hair growth on the nipples, stomach, back and face.
• height: girls get taller, and this is often referred to as a ‘growth spurt’
• muscles: muscles will start to grow, and they will become stronger
• genitals: the external genitals will become darker in colour
• vaginal discharge: there will be discharge (a clear, whiteish, or creamy-coloured secretion) that comes out of the vagina about 6 –12 months before the first period and between or during subsequent periods. This discharge is natural and can be thin, thick, sticky, or gooey. Discharge helps keep your vagina clean, moist and works to prevent infections. Your child may like to wear a liner in her underwear to keep them dry.
• menstrual cycle: also known as a period, where the lining of the uterus grows, the ovaries release an egg, and the lining sheds when the egg is not fertilised. This may come with period pain such as cramps, back pain or aches. Your child may also experience pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS). See the section below on ‘Periods’.
• pimples: the glands in the skin get bigger and produce more oil. This can lead to dirt and oil build-up in areas such as the face, shoulders, back and neck, which have more oil glands. Increased oil production in these areas can cause whiteheads, blackheads and pimples. Severe breakouts of pimples can be caused by a condition called acne. See your local doctor or dermatologist if you are concerned.

There is a large variation in development throughout puberty, and it doesn’t look the same for everyone. Your child can increase their independence by learning to manage their different hygiene needs during puberty. See the 'caring for the body during puberty' section below for advice to support your child and their body during puberty.

The increase in hormones in your child will trigger the following physical changes in males:

• voice: the voice will become noticeably deeper because the larynx (or Adam’s apple) becomes larger and may become more obvious. The voice may take a while to ‘break’, causing his voice to fluctuate in depth. 
• hair: hair on the arms and legs gets darker and thicker. Hair also starts to grow on the face, underarms, pubic area, chest and back and can continue to grow into their 20s. Hair gets thicker and darker as they grow and age.
• height: males get taller, which is often referred to as a ‘growth spurt’ 
• muscles: muscles will start to grow, and they will become stronger
• body and face shape: his shoulders will widen, his chest will broaden, and the shape of the jaw and face will change
• pimples/acne: the glands in the skin get bigger and produce more oil. This can lead to dirt and oil build-up in areas such as the face, shoulders, back and neck, which have more oil glands. Increased oil production in these areas can cause whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, and acne.
• breast development: it is normal for males to have some small breast growth and tenderness during puberty but this will usually go away as they age. The skin around the nipple called the areola, will get bigger and darker and may grow hair.  
• genitals: the scrotum, which is the skin that holds the testicles, lowers and darkens in colour. The external genitals (penis, scrotum and testicles) also grow bigger. Penises come in all shapes and sizes and are unique to each person. Reproduction and sexual function don’t depend on penis size.

There is a large variation in how your child develops throughout puberty, and it isn’t the same for everyone. These physical changes mean that your child will need to take increasing responsibility for their hygiene to ensure they are healthy and clean. See the 'caring for the body during puberty' section below for advice to support your child and their body during puberty.

1. Hormones in the body tell the ovaries to produce an egg, usually from one side of the ovary but sometimes both!
2. While this is happening, the uterus will start to grow a lining full of blood and nutrients to prepare for an egg. 
3. When the egg has matured, it will be released by the ovary. The egg will travel down the fallopian tubes and arrive in the uterus 16-32 hours later. This is called ovulation.
4. Pregnancy:
   1. If there is sperm present, it can meet with an egg. This is called fertilisation.
   2. The fertilised egg can then bury itself into the lining of the uterus. This is called implantation.
   3. A fertilised egg that has implanted in the uterus can grow into a pregnancy.
5. No pregnancy:
   1. If there is no sperm to fertilise the egg, the egg will continue to travel and eventually break down and be absorbed back into the body
   2. Because there is no pregnancy, the lining of the uterus is not needed and will start to break down
   3. Once the lining starts to break down, it will flow out of the cervix and vagina as a bleed, also known as a period
   4. While the bleed is happening, the ovaries will be preparing for the next cycle which will then repeat each month.

Did you know? The left and right ovaries usually alternate releasing an egg each month.

The first period will usually start between 11 to 14 years old. Generally, a period or menstrual cycle is about 28 days, including 3 to 7 days of bleeding. This can vary and is not always the same. It is normal for periods to be irregular for the first few years, but they tend to settle into a regular pattern over time. Periods usually last anywhere between 3 to 7 days.

The cycle is counted from the first day of the period or bleed until the first day of the next period. Periods tend to be heavier on Day 1 and get lighter towards the end of the period.

What is normal for one teenager can be different for another.  A person's period is unique to them. A period can look different in terms of:

• what colour or texture the bleed is
• how it makes you feel physically and emotionally
• how long the bleed goes for and how long in between
• how old you are when you get your first period.

It is important that your child is familiar with what is normal for them so they can be confident in managing their period. Talk to your family doctor if:

• you or your child have any concerns
• something changes
• mood swings, pain or other symptoms disrupt their daily activities
• your child does not feel quite right.

It is normal for parents, carers and children to be anxious about expecting the first period and the many changes it brings. You can help your child by having early conversations about:

• different period products, where you can buy them and how they are used
• what to expect from your first period
• how to dispose of used period products
• managing cramps, pain and other symptoms
• how they can continue doing activities like sports and swimming when they are on their period
• eating and drinking well during their period 
• pain and other signs that something might be wrong
• where relevant, your own experience with periods.

Conversations with your child about sex, pregnancy, and the menstrual cycle are important to:

• explain why their period happens
• learn about how to prevent pregnancy
• safeguard your child from harm
• help your child understand how their body works and how to take care of it
• reduce stigma
• help your child know when something is not right.

Getting blood on underwear, clothes, or sheets is very common and is nothing to be ashamed of. It happens to most if not all, females at some stage throughout their reproductive years. If this happens, sheets or clothing can be rinsed, soaked, and washed with cold water and detergent.

You can help your child develop their independence and manage their period on their own by:

• making a period pack that contains period products, tissues, spare underwear and other items 
• encouraging them to keep track of their periods on their phone, an app or a diary
• trying different products to figure out what works best for them.

In NSW, every public school offers free period products to support students’ access to clean and hygienic materials from clean dispensers. The period products available will depend on local needs and preferences and may include one or a combination of pads, tampons or period underwear. Talk to your child's Principal to see if this applies to their school.

The increase in hormones during puberty will impact how your child thinks, feels and acts. Your child is still learning how to manage their emotions and, therefore, may have fluctuations in their mood. Your child may be happy and excited one minute and flat, sad or insecure the next. Some fluctuations are normal, and it can be useful to discuss helpful coping strategies with your child. However, if mood swings or negative emotions persist or disrupt daily activities, speak with your child and seek support from your family doctor. 

See Mental health for more information.

During puberty, your child might start to be attracted to other people and develop intimate feelings towards others. Physical and hormonal changes from puberty increase sexual feelings, thoughts, and desires. Children may develop a crush or be in a relationship with another person.

Your child may be interested in someone from the opposite sex, same-sex, or both sexes. Others may not be interested in dating, which is also common. There is no right or wrong age to develop an attraction towards others, and your child shouldn’t feel pressured to date, even if their friends are.

Body image is an individual's thoughts, feelings, and attitudes about their body and appearance, including their shape, size and weight. A healthy body image is when your child feels comfortable and confident in their own body and appreciates their worth irrespective of their physical appearance. 

During puberty, children may become more self-conscious about their appearance and vulnerable to developing negative body image due to the physical and emotional changes they experience. 

See Body image and self confidence for more information on supporting your child’s body image. 

Having a child who is about to go through or is going through puberty can be challenging to navigate. It’s important for you to talk to children early about puberty to ensure they get the right information delivered in a safe and age-appropriate way. 

How to talk to your child:

1. pick the right time when your child isn’t busy or distracted and seems open to talking
2. find out what they know
3. provide the correct information in a safe and age-appropriate way and correct any mistakes or misinformation
4. give them the opportunity to ask questions 
5. keep the line of communication open.

When your child is going through puberty, there are some things you can do to support their healthy growth and development during this time:

• Nutrition: during puberty, your child will have a bigger appetite and need more energy. Provide your child with a well-balanced diet and plenty of water. Foods high in calcium and iron, especially for girls who lose blood during menstruation, are essential for their bones, muscles, and blood circulation. Food and drinks that contain caffeine should be limited as they reduce the absorption of some nutrients such as calcium.
• Sleep: during puberty, children start to produce melatonin, the sleep hormone, later in the day, meaning your child may want to go to bed later and not get up as early in the morning. You can help by ensuring they have a regular sleep schedule and get sufficient sleep. See Sleep hygiene for more information.
• Wellbeing: there are a lot of social and emotional changes during puberty, so check in with your child regularly to see how they are coping. If they are struggling, get your child to talk to their local doctor. See Mental health for more information.
• Exercise: encourage at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity or exercise each day to lower your child’s risk of excess weight gain. Exercise also helps increase self-esteem, lower anxiety and stress, and improve mood, which can be largely impacted during this time.
• Privacy: your child will want more privacy and personal space as they experience changes to the way they look, feel, and think. It is important to respect your child's privacy and always knock before entering your child’s room.
• Support: provide support and reassurance to your adolescent during this time. Remind them that changes are entirely normal. Be patient and keep an open line of communication to ensure they can come to you for any questions or if they are in trouble.

During puberty, the body undergoes hormonal changes that cause the sweat glands to get bigger, become more active, and produce more oil. This increased oil production can lead to dirt build-up, clogged pores, and acne. Additionally, increased sweat production can cause body odour which your child may not have been previously aware of in themselves. Maintaining good hygiene during this period is essential to ensure your child is healthy, clean, and confident. 

Here are some key hygiene tips:

• apply antiperspirant deodorant regularly to reduce underarm sweat and body odour, for example, roll on or spray deodorant
• shower daily and pay extra attention to areas that tend to sweat more, such as the armpits, genitals, and feet
• wash the face with a mild soap or cleanser or as recommended by your doctor or dermatologist
• if pimples arise, avoid squeezing or scratching them, as this can scar or make them worse
• wash hair at least once a week to clean the oil build-up on the head
• wash clothes regularly as body sweat transfers to your child’s clothes, causing clothes to smell
• if shaving, use a gel or soap, change the blade regularly (or throw it away if disposable), and rinse the razor every few strokes to prevent razor burn, cuts, or slices
• for girls, always wash hands thoroughly before and after applying and removing period products
• for circumcised boys, teach your child to always wash their penis every time they shower
• for uncircumcised boys, teach your child to clean under their foreskin every time they shower and rinse thoroughly with water before re-covering the head of their penis. 

Speak to your doctor if you or your child have any concerns with these hygiene tips.

Children start to lose their baby teeth from around six years of age. Adult teeth then replace baby teeth that have fallen out. From here, children will have some baby teeth, some adult teeth and perhaps some missing teeth while adult teeth are waiting to grow through. 

All teeth are important, and a lot of care should be taken to keep them free from infection or decay at this stage of development.

It is important that teeth fall out on their own. Pulling out teeth can damage your child’s gums and teeth or result in infection and unnecessary pain.

The permanent back teeth begin to come through at about six years of age behind the primary molars. These are sometimes called the 'six-year-old molars'. The permanent front teeth also begin to come through at about six years of age. 

Your child’s teeth are important, and they need your help to look after them to keep them healthy. Until at least eight years of age, help your child to ensure they brush their teeth properly and regularly. If your child is quite independent, you can give them more responsibility in this process. From eight years, encourage your child to brush their teeth independently day and night. 

42% of children aged 5-10 years have tooth decay (dental carries or cavities) in their baby teeth.

Here is how to look after your primary-school child’s teeth to prevent tooth decay:

• use a small, pea-sized amount of low-fluoride toothpaste until six years of age; after this, use adult toothpaste
• brush twice a day with a small toothbrush that has soft bristles – morning and night is usually the most convenient time and can help set a good routine
• teach your child to spit out toothpaste instead of swallowing
• don’t rinse with water after brushing as the fluoride from the toothpaste is working to protect your child’s teeth.
• remind your child to brush their tongue too
• encourage your child to floss daily
• book regular dental checkups every 6-12 months
• lift their lip to check for signs of tooth decay once a month 
• offer your child healthy snacks such as fresh fruit and vegetables, cheese and plain yoghurt
• limit sharing cutlery, utensils, or cleaning items they put in their mouth with your saliva, as this can pass bacteria and germs that cause tooth decay to your child’s mouth. 

See the Teeth and gum care fact sheet for more information.

Sport is a great way to get your child active. It is also important to take precautions to protect your child’s teeth during certain forms of sport or exercise.

Sport and tooth protection

Children are often at risk of chipping, breaking, or knocking out their teeth from things such as contact sports, rough play, falls or accidents. Losing a baby tooth early from an accident is not usually a cause for concern, and treatment will focus on managing pain or infection to the tooth or gum. However, tooth injuries to adult teeth must be treated as soon as possible to avoid further injury, infection, and permanent loss. 

See the Tooth injuries in older children factsheet for more information, including treatment and management.

Sports drinks:

Where possible, sports drinks and sugar-sweetened beverages should be limited or avoided to prevent tooth decay. Regular sports drinks contain sugar, which interacts with bacteria in the mouth creating acid that can decay teeth. If your child does have a sweet drink or food, ensure they drink water and/or brush their teeth afterwards to reduce the risk of tooth decay. When playing sport, water is the best choice to rehydrate your child. 

If you would like further information about fluids, sports drinks or electrolytes for your child's specific sport, book in to see an Accredited Practicing Dietitian or a Sports Dietitian.