Book 1, Question 30 · Video
Why Do We Get Growing Pains? Achy Legs Explained!
Growing pains are real aches, but the page says they are not an injury. They often show up as tired leg muscles after busy play, commonly at night in both legs, and are usually gon
Read the full answer →What Crafty Clover says in this video
Intro
Hi! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. Why do we get growing pains?
The Big Idea
Ouch! Have your legs ever ached at night, after a busy day? Those can be growing pains. They're real aches, but not an injury. Scientists aren't totally sure why, but tired muscles are a top suspect!
Tired Muscles
Number one: tired leg muscles, after play. They often come after lots of running and jumping. Your muscles work hard, then feel sore or achy later. Friendly reminder: these are tired muscles, not broken bones!
Night, Both Legs
Number two: they're common at night. They usually happen in both legs: thighs, calves, or behind the knees. And they're often gone by morning!
Get It Checked
Number three: some pains need a doctor. Pain in one spot, swelling, redness, or a limp, are not growing pains. Don't guess. Tell a grown-up, and get it checked! Better safe than sorry.
A Closer Look
Let's take a closer look at your legs. Big muscles in your thighs and calves power every run and jump. Growing pains happen in muscles, not joints or bones. Rest, and a good night's sleep, help them recover!
Quick Facts
Quick facts! Most kids outgrow growing pains as they get older. They often fade by morning, and don't happen every night. They're most common between about ages 3 and 12. And a gentle leg rub, or a warm bath, can help tired muscles feel better.
Think Like a Scientist
Now, think like a scientist! After a running day, ask a grown-up to help you try a calf stretch. Face a wall, one foot back, heel down. Gently lean forward, and hold for 20 to 30 seconds. Then ask yourself: what did my legs do today? Did the stretch help? Keep moving, keep curious, and be kind to your amazing legs!
Outro
So growing pains are just busy legs saying, we worked hard today! Remember, Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!