Developmental milestones of your school age child
Date :
Friday, October 16 2009
Source:
Autourina Mains
Up to the age of 8 years old children are concrete learners which means they still need to have experiences that allows them to see, feel, hear, taste and touch for optimal learning. Abstract ideas are harder to grasp than concrete. By this age children like to have real experiences such as taking real photos, participate in cooking activities, and making real jewelry.
They have a solid understanding of rules and enjoy playing games that have rules or even making up their own games and rules. Keep in mind that developmental milestones are a general guideline as each child develops at his/her own pace.
By this age they have mastered some skills including:
- Small motor skills such as; using scissors and small tools , catching small balls, tying shoelaces, copying designs and shapes, write letters and numbers (though they may reverse some letters d/b) and can even write a few words and sentences.
- Has a better concept of time and able to learn days of the week
- Has a longer attention span and enjoys planning and building
- Can tell the difference between right and left
- Shows more interest in reading and writing and has a more articulate speech and may even enjoy word games and tongue twisters
- Enjoys the company of the same sex, friendship becomes a quite important, and begins to form best friends
- Shows an interest in joining clubs, group games and gatherings (gives them a sense of belonging and security)
- Very willing to please and may be hard to take criticism (see things black and white with no grey in the middle)
- Does not view self as the center of universe and begins to see another person’s point of view (view problems from another perspective)
- May enjoy caring and playing for younger children