Growing and Changing
Understanding how the body grows and changes over time. Recognizing new skills developed since Junior Infants.
TL;DR:This topic explores the physical and developmental journey of the child, from infancy to their current stage in Senior Infants. It emphasizes the 'Growing and Changing' strand of the SPHE curriculum, helping children recognize the new skills and responsibilities they have acquired. By reflecting on their progress, students develop a sense of competence and an appreciation for the natural cycle of human growth.
About This Topic
This topic explores the physical and developmental journey of the child, from infancy to their current stage in Senior Infants. It emphasizes the 'Growing and Changing' strand of the SPHE curriculum, helping children recognize the new skills and responsibilities they have acquired. By reflecting on their progress, students develop a sense of competence and an appreciation for the natural cycle of human growth.
Understanding growth is not just about height; it is about the transition from dependence to independence. This topic connects to the 'Taking care of my body' strand by highlighting how our needs change as we get older. This concept comes alive when students can physically model the patterns of growth using photos or timelines, allowing them to see the tangible evidence of their own development.
Key Questions
- How have I grown since I was a baby?
- What new things can I do now?
- How will I change as I get older?
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Common MisconceptionGrowing up only happens when you have a birthday.
What to Teach Instead
Children often associate growth strictly with age. Hands-on activities showing skill development help them understand that growth is a continuous process of learning and physical change.
Common MisconceptionEveryone grows at the exact same speed.
What to Teach Instead
Students might worry if they are shorter or lose teeth later than peers. Using a variety of growth charts and discussing different timelines helps normalize individual developmental rates.
Active Learning Ideas
See all activities→Inquiry Circle
Then and Now Timelines
Students work in pairs to compare photos of themselves as babies with how they look now. They identify three things they can do now (like tying laces or writing their name) that they couldn't do then.
Simulation Game
The Baby Care Challenge
Using dolls, students simulate the tasks needed to care for a baby. They then discuss as a class why they no longer need someone to do these things for them, highlighting their growth and independence.
Stations Rotation
Skills Lab
Set up stations with tasks of varying difficulty (buttoning a coat, pouring water, drawing a shape). Students rotate through and check off the skills they have mastered since starting school.