Tween: Child Development (cont.)

How can parents ensure the safety of their preteen (child 9-11 years of age)?

Preventable injury is the leading cause of death in this age range. Auto accidents account for 21% of all tween deaths, while non-auto accidents (bike, falls, drowning) collectively account for another 16% of deaths in this age group. Most parents are astounded to learn that 6% of all deaths in this age range are the result of suicide. Thus, almost half (43%) of all deaths in this age group are preventable. While peer pressure (for example, not to wear bike helmets) is a certain force, parental pressure ("no helmet, no bike") generally will prevail.

Any discussion regarding childhood safety must consider the pervasive and potentially corrupting effect of the Internet. Inappropriate web sites, social interactive sites (including Facebook and others), and general overuse must be addressed by parents. Limiting available content, hours of utilization, and time spent are all appropriate parental responsibilities.

REFERENCES:

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
http://www.asha.org

Child Development Institute
http://www.childdevelopmentinfo.com

Last Editorial Review: 12/3/2009 10:07:15 AM

Source: MedicineNet.com
http://www.medicinenet.com/tween_child_development/article.htm