Elementary School Age: A Time Of Growth

What a fun age. Going into first grade and then realizing that middle school is around the corner. These are very important years and your family will benefit from following certain tactics throughout these special years.

These are the years when children learn the most important value systems and begin to grasp concepts of life actions and attitudes. Your most important and influential years as parents are now and later when your child becomes a teen. Between the ages of five and nine there are special requirements that children need to conduct themselves properly in school, with friends, and even at home.

This is the time when children are introduced to the concept of sharing and the importance of allowing others equal treatment. The general rule of value systems and morals comes into full swing during these years. Your child will become an invitee to many birthday parties, sleep overs, and partake in activities such as cub scouts or junior sports. It's important to share the greatest or life's little lesson's at this time.

It is important to show your enthusiasm for their endeavors. By showing them that they are important you are building a great amount of confidence in your children at this age. They will gain some of the greatest lifelong traits at this age that will carry through the years. Show them your full attention when you can. Give them a big hug when they come running up with excitement to show off their "A" in math class. Inquire about their day at school and their new friends. Show them he right amount of healthy interest and they will reward you by growing up friendly, chatty, and respectful.

This is a stage for friendships. You will want to encourage their relationships with friends. They will get their feelings hurt, they will have great times but also bad times. By showing the example of strength and of resiliency you will raise a powerful child. There is power in socialization so do not be afraid to let them venture to a sleep over. Healthy contact and friendships will help maintain a healthy emotional child.

Family time and household responsibility will become very important during these years. Developing family game night will show them the importance of family. Even a simple chore list can do wonders in teaching responsibility.

The author writes for Family and Parenting, a complete family resource that includes education tips for kids.