Between the ages of 6 and 12, the child's world expands outward from the family as relationships are formed with friends, teachers, coaches, caregivers, and others. Because their experiences are expanding, many factors can alter children's actions and impact how they learn to get along. Some situations can create stress and affect self-esteem. The middle childhood period is a time to prepare for adolescence.
Physical and Language
Intellectual
Social/ Emotional
5-6 years: Very high energy. Dances and can keep a beat
Permanent teeth are coming in
Girls are developing ahead of boys
Likes to build and create things
Can play organized games
Should be able to consistently use simple, but structurally complete, sentences that average 5 - 7 words. Syntax and pronunciation becomes normal. Children use more complex sentences as they grow.
Children who are unable to express themselves adequately may be more prone to exhibiting aggressive behavior or temper tantrums.
A 6-year-old normally can follow a series of 3 commands in a row.By age 10, most children can follow 5 commands in a row.
Line between fantasy and reality becomes more clear
Can shift attention from one task to another
Able to give more thought to decisions
Have a great imagination
Very interested in collecting things
Enjoys jokes, rhymes, riddles, nonsense songs
Begins to see others? point of view
Wants to be treated like an adult
Can accept fair punishment
Feels hurt when called names
Proud and possessive of belongings
Worries about being liked
Enjoys talking with more than cuddling with parents
Boys and girls begin to play less with each other
Becomes competitive
Doesn?t like to lose
Can be bossy
What you can do:
Even though this age does not like to lose, when playing a game make sure that you don?t always let the child win. Win some and lose some.
Be patient with questions since they become more meaningful and will be more likely to be remembered.
Provide books and music appropriate to the child?s level.
Provide opportunities for your child to use her imagination.
Provide toys that allow the child to create and build things.
Offer lots of praise since this age is very concerned about pleasing adults.
