How Kids Grow: Defining Normal Behavior - Development of Children

Written by Elaine M. Gibson

Five

What to expect:

• A five can take charge of bathroom responsibilities, wants to tie shoelaces, can dress with skill, can safely cross streets, needs to help with the family chores, and cannot be left alone.
• Investigates everything -- including fire.
• Eats more than ever before.
• When playing, makes up rules as the child goes along.

Needs:

• Lots of sleep (no naps).
• Good food (no junk).
• Plenty of exercise (limited TV).
• Attention for good behavior.
• Training in cooperation.

Discipline:

• Privileges need to be connected to responsibilities.
• Consequences need to be clear for misbehavior before child misbehaves.

Six

What to expect:

• Is fiercely independent, a real "know it all".
• Is obsessed by rules.
• In perpetual motion, especially at the table.
• Seldom finishes food and has no table manners.
• Always in motion but clumsy, can run into the wall and trip over the child's shadow.
• Six tattles to let adults know that he/she knows the rules.
• May have temper tantrums again.
• Worst behavior when the child is with the child's mother.

Needs: Responsibility for self-care. Hates to be babied.

Discipline: Six is best with the father.

It is better to let father take over the difficult times such as meals, bath, and bedtime. Make expectations clear and consistent.

Seven

What to expect:

• Seven complains all the time, mostly about parents. At this age, most children decide they are adopted, even if they aren't.
• All they think about is playing.
• Feel mistreated by everyone, withdraw from trouble and complain.
• Do care what others think about them.

Needs:

• Listen without solving their problems.
• Encourage problem-solving.
• Don't over-react with this child.

Discipline: Firm kindness.

• Avoid being manipulated.
• Don't give in to their overly sensitive dramatics.
• Be patient and encourage at every opportunity.