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6 years old
By the end of first grade, they should have improved hand-eye coordination for things like tying shoelaces. Get their feelings hurt more easily and start being very aware of other people’s feelings. They should be able to sound out words. Learn from what they hear and read, not just from what they see and do. -
7 years old
They should be able to ride a bike without using their training wheels. Understand right from wrong, but they might look for the loopholes in rules to get what they want. They should understand the relationship between letters and sounds. They begin to have a better sense of time, understanding increments of time, days, weeks, months, and seasons. -
8 years old
They might be able to coordinate movements to do things like follow a dance routine. They can change often between being helpful and upbeat to being unhelpful and grouchy. Use all letter sounds correctly; don’t substitute w for r anymore when speaking. Recognize and know the value of coins -
9 years old
Have a bigger appetite and need more sleep. Are uncertain about puberty and changes to their bodies. Face more academic challenges at school. Begin to rely on friends, the news, and social media to get information and form opinions. -
10 years old
Complain of growing pains or muscle cramps. Have a first crush or pretend to have crushes to fit in with peers. Become more independent from the family. Coordinate movements (like dribbling and shooting a basketball or martial arts). -
11 years old
Start showing signs of puberty, like hair growth or oily skin; girls may have weight gain or redistribution and boys’ voices may start to change. Are kind, silly, and curious, but also can be self-involved, moody, and disrespectful. Have an increased attention span. Develop a better sense of responsibility and help out around the house. -
12 years old
Start showing uneven development in skills like agility, balance, strength, and flexibility. Be sensitive to other people’s opinions and reactions, and think the whole world is watching them. Are interested in having discussions, debates, and arguments. Think about how current actions affect the future and may worry about things like climate change and war.
