Question
What is the definition of pediatric care? What are the specific nutritional needs during the growth period of children, especially during the stages of 4-6 years and 7-12 years?
Answer
Pediatric care refers to the process of paying special attention to a child’s nutritional intake and growth and development during their growth. Childhood can be divided into two main stages: 4-6 years and 7-12 years. During the 4-6 year stage, children experience a rapid growth spurt, with significant improvements in language and motor skills, as their bodies are in the formation phase of bones, teeth, muscles, and blood. Therefore, there is a high demand for nutrients, requiring ample calories, proteins, vitamins, and minerals to support their growth and development. By the age of 7-12, children enter a second growth peak period, with increased physical activity and a vigorous metabolism, making their nutritional needs even more stringent. The adequacy, comprehensiveness, and rationality of nutritional supply not only affect a child’s physical health but also their overall well-being.