Key_Aspects_of_Childrens_Development

I am currently working with children aged 7 – 8. The key aspects of development for this age range include: Physical • Body proportions and motor skills become more defined with improved co-ordination, rhythm, stamina and strength • Able to run, jump, skip, hit a ball, climb and swing Communication and Intellectual • Speaks fluently and is more self-assured • Able to tell the time & have some understanding of money • Able to read to themselves and write sentences • Begins to rationalise problems Social, Emotional and Behavioural • Enjoys interacting with peers and playing team games • Starts to form closer relationships • Wants to fit in with peer groups • Begins to take other’s perspective Several influences from a child’s background have the potential to impact on some or all of the areas of development. The influences most likely to have bearing may include neglect, parenting styles, family dynamics, illness/disability/disorder and learning environment. For example, if a child encounters neglect, they may be subject to verbal & physical abuse which would adversely affect their emotional and social development. They could become withdrawn, angry or sad and may be wary of adults. Early self-reliance may result in poor hygiene and inadequate nutrition which would be detrimental to their physical development. They might not attend school on a regular basis which may well impact on their intellectual development. Possible transitions experienced by this age group could include the arrival of a new baby, a family split or the death of a grandparent or pet. Many transitions can be emotionally disruptive and confusing for the child, which may be reflected in changed behaviour. They could demonstrate attention seeking behaviour, have uncharacteristic lack of concentration or a talkative child may be unwilling to communicate. In the instance of a family split, for example, not only does the child have to deal with not seeing one parent regularly, but they may also have to adapt to the presence of a step parent and possibly step siblings. They may be anxious, resentful or angry about the changes and could be jealous of their step siblings. In some circumstances, the child might need to move house which in itself can be stressful, leaving a familiar environment for one that is not familiar. These changes can impact on all areas of child development. The resulting effect on a child’s social and emotional development can consequently have a detrimental effect on their intellectual development. Transitions are part of growing up. Some, such as starting school and puberty, are experienced by all children so the child can be prepared to some extent for these changes. In the case of starting school, induction procedures are usually in place to help ease the child (and their parents) through that transition. For less common transitions, it is crucial that the child is given lots of positive responses and support to help ease them through the change. The transitions that children experience, and the amount of support and guidance that they receive during the process, have an impact on their emotional development and their ability to cope with life’s challenges. Adults need to provide sufficient support to help children handle transitions in a positive manner which will enable them to cope with life’s changes and challenges.