Childhood

Some things we might observe in this stage might be ... 

Physical

During this stage, we should see a lot of physical development – increase in height and weight (obviously !) and an increase in dexterity, particularly with fine motor coordination, and the approach of puberty towards the later years of this stage may become apparent.

Emotional

The development of self concept -  a sense of who and ‘what’ we are, and this is something that can be greatly impacted by how other people relate to us.

Intellectual

A time of huge development, not least because it is during this stage when schooling starts and children ‘learn to learn’.  Children start to grasp abstract concepts like time, calendars, space, maths, and handwriting will be developing.

Social

Secondary socialization starts in nursery, but school is the ‘big’ secondary socializer, when, for the firs time, the ‘apron strings’ are cut.  Children develop new friendships with other children, and, importantly, they develop new relationships with adults outwith the immediate family. Children begin to play with each other, and imaginary play become much more evident, particularly ‘role play’ (Mums and Dads, Teachers, etc).  They also join clubs, groups, and teams (Brownies, junior rugby, etc)

Cultural

Children start to identify with particular groups, and so are drawn toward them.  They will tend to mix with like minded children who share similar interests or share a cultural background.  Children start to learn about cultural ‘roles’ … those of males and females, for example.
Created by Simon Watson.  April 2020.   
All images used under creative commons licenses.