Physical
Development
- Is energetic and spirited.
- Is usually awkward.
- Strives to be physically fit.
- Is fascinated with how the body works.
- May be curious about drugs, alcohol,
and tobacco.
- Enjoys bathroom humor.
Emotional Development
- Goes back and forth between dependent
child and independent pre-teen.
- Becomes more and more self-conscious.
Social Development
- Wants approval from significant people
for being "good".
- Becomes preoccupied with the opposite
sex.
- Relates to peer group intensely and
abides by group decisions.
- Gives in to peer pressure easily.
- Does not want to be "different".
- Likes to play in small groups.
- Confides constantly in best friend.
- Can be fickle.
Mental Development
- Is eager to learn and master new
skills and proud of doing things well.
- Is concerned about personal abilities.
- Has some of his or her own standards
of right and wrong
Each child is unique. It is therefore difficult to describe
exactly what should be expected at each stage of a child's
development. While certain attitudes, behaviors, and
physical milestones tend to occur at certain ages, a wide
spectrum of growth and behavior for each age is normal.
Consequently, these guidelines are offered as a way of
showing a general progression through the developmental
stages rather than as fixed requirements for normal
development at specific ages. It is perfectly natural for a
child to attain some milestones earlier and other milestones
later than the general trend. Keep this in mind as you
review these milestones.
If you have any concerns related to your
child's own pattern of development, check with your health
care provider.