Middle childhood: A key time for healthy development and learning

Abstract

This chapter examines middle childhood. Skills and values developed during middle childhood build on foundations established in early childhood and set the stage for adolescence. Thus, it is vital that the momentum established in the early years is sustained through this important life phase. Young Lives evidence shows that children's growth trajectories are more dynamic during middle childhood than is often recognised. This finding suggests a wider policy opportunity. The evidence from systematic reviews points to the importance of measures such as social protection, which has been shown to increase livelihood security. With near-universal access to school during middle childhood, midday meals and other nutrition programmes in schools may also help support children's growth. Moreover, the focus on strengthened education and learning quality is especially important for the early grades, given that early performance in key areas such as literacy and numeracy lays the foundation for later educational performance.