5 years old
- a longer attention span
- becoming an expert on favourite things
- communicating well
- making more decisions about food, clothes and play
- can tired and emotional at times
6 years old
- tantrums
- seeks praise and reassurance
- doesn’t like being away from you
- doesn’t like criticism or getting things wrong
7 years old
- complaining
- can be dramatic
- more aware of feelings
- aware of what other people think
8 years old
- can be sensitive
- fighting with you
- starting to experience differences with friends
- aware of right and wrong
9 years old
- friends become important
- closer friends
- pushes back against you
- can show disrespect and being selfishness
10-12 years old
- promises are important
- they remember everything
what they might need…
- play
- time with you
- time to talk about their day and how they feel
- listen to them
- simple rules and clear boundaries as they get older
- praise, encouragement and positivity
- allow them some time and space to be independent
what you might you need…
- to avoid arguments – pick your battles
- be consistent especially with routine, boundaries and discipline
- allow them to push against you – they may be testing boundaries
- give yourself a break when you need it
- try to communicate with each other
Janine | Birth, Baby & Family
Mum of three and a specialist in pregnancy, birth and parent support