What is the average weight gain for school-age children per year?

The average weight gain for school-age children, typically between the ages of 6 to 12 years, is about 4-6 pounds per year. This range reflects the normal growth patterns associated with this developmental stage, where children may experience steady growth rather than rapid increases in weight.

During these years, children engage in increased physical activity, which often balances out caloric intake and contributes to gradual weight gain. Additionally, factors such as individual metabolism, genetics, and activity levels can influence this weight gain. The 4-6 pound range provides a baseline for pediatric growth assessment and is used by healthcare professionals when monitoring children’s growth patterns.

Other options suggest weight gains that are either too low or too high for this age group, making them inconsistent with established growth benchmarks for school-age children. Understanding this growth pattern is crucial for recognizing healthy development and identifying potential concerns in pediatric health.