Ten Years | Download to Print

Physical Development
physical growth and development varies enormously among this age group
is energetic and spirited
is usually awkward
strives to be physically fit
is fascinated with how the body works
may be curious about drugs, alcohol, and tobacco
continues to revel in bathroom humor

Emotional Development
fluctuates between dependent child and independent pre-teen
becomes increasingly self-conscious

Social Development
seeks approval for being "good" from significant people
becomes preoccupied with the opposite sex
relates to peer group intensely and abides by group decisions
succumbs to peer pressure more readily
does not want to be "different"
continues to participate in small groups of same sex
confides constantly in best friend
can be fickle

Mental Development
is eager to learn and master new skills
is proud of doing things well
is concerned about personal capabilities
has internalized standards of right and wrong to some degree

Parenting
Limit the amount and monitor the quality of television. Limit “screen time” which includes not only TV, but also hand-held computer games, computer, video games. Begin to play beginner board games-Encourage learning to lose gracefully.
Provide a quiet, well-lit place for homework. Be available for supervision.
Look into an outside group activity (soccer team dance class, Girls Scouts, church group, etc.)
Get to know your child's friends and their parents.
Provide supervision for your child after school. This is the best protection against future problems.