Your Elementary Aged Child


           

Attributes of First Graders

The average six-year-old is extremely egocentric and wants to be the center of attention. The average first grade student:
  • Wants to be the "best" and "first."
  • Has boundless energy.
  • May be oppositional, silly, brash, and critical.
  • Cries easily; shows a variety of tension-releasing behavior.
  • Is attached to the teacher.
  • Has difficulty being flexible.
  • Often considers fantasy real.

Attributes of Second Graders
 
Brought to you by the American School Counselor Association

Is your seven-year-old on track? Below are some general development milestones to help you understand your child's progress over the school year. Keep in mind that every child is different and may not fit perfectly into this framework.

Where They Are
At seven, kids begin to calm down a bit. They:
  • Begin to reason and concentrate.
  • Worry, are self-critical, and may express a lack of confidence.
  • Demand more of their teacher's time.
  • Dislike being singled out, even for praise.
Where They're Going

School isn't just academics. Your child's teachers are also helping her grow socially. At seven-years-old, your child is continuing to learn about herself and others. You can help by encouraging her as she:
  • Develops a concept of herself.
  • Begins to understand others.
  • Gains respect for others.
  • Builds relationships with others.
  • Develops a sense of responsibility.

Attributes of Third Graders
 
This information is brought to you by the American School Counselor Association
Is your eight-year-old on track? Below are some general development milestones to help you understand your child's progress over the school year. Keep in mind that every child is different and may not fit perfectly into this framework.
 
 
Where They Are

The average eight-year-old is explosive, excitable, dramatic, and inquisitive. She:
  • Possesses a "know-it-all" attitude.
  • Is able to assume some responsibility for her actions.
  • Actively seeks praise.
  • May undertake more than she can handle successfully.
  • Is self-critical.
  • Recognizes the needs of others.
Where They're Going
School isn't just academics. Your child's teachers are also helping him grow socially. At eight-years-old, your child is learning how to set goals and understand the consequences of his behavior. You can help by encouraging him as he:
  • Explores the relationship of feelings, goals, and behavior.
  • Learns about choices and consequences.
  • Begins setting goals.
  • Becomes more responsible.
  • Learns how to work with others.

Dr. Sarah Aboudara, Behaviorist
[email protected]

Brought to you by the American School Counselor Association