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Navigate: FAQ Home Page > General Health Questions > Daughter and toddler
Posted on: 10/28/2005
Question
I want to know if my 11-year-old daugher will experience any developmental or growth problems by picking up and carrying her 30 pound toddler brother. She loves to play with him and pick him up. Lately, people have been saying that it could harm her joints or hips since she is developing.
Answer
The answer to your question depends on several factors, including the size of your 11-year-old daughter and the age of your 30 pound toddler. Some 11-year-olds are nearly adult-sized and can easily lift the weight you described. However, toddlers can be active and fidgety and depending on the circumstances and maturity level of the 11-year-old, accidents happen. Most children this age like to horse around with each other and we cannot put a stop, nor should we stop all play. However, at these ages, this type of activity should be supervised and restricted. As long as she is using her legs to help lift him, rather than her back, it shouldn't harm her joints or hips.