5 Developmental Milestones: 10 - 11 Years Old




Developmental Tasks

As children approach the upper elementary school grades they take on more responsibilities. Children ages 10 - 11 continue to develop a sense of accomplishment in school, with peers, and in their own abilities. New challenges shape kids' existing beliefs and values.

Physical Growth

Traits: Girls often make make quick weight gains as their bodies prepare for puberty. Boys sharpen their motor-skills, and they are active and rough in play.

Advice for Parents: Nourish kids with a variety of foods for healthy growth. Provide opportunities for motor development: Install a baseketball hoop. Supply rollerblades.

Intellectual Development

Traits: Argues logically. Concerned with in-style fashions and current trends. May show talent. May enjoy reading. Takes on many interests, some may be short-lived.

Advice for Parents: Teach child to use logic in problem-solving and everyday thinking. Talk about drug abuse. Recommend books directed to interests. Provide lessons in music, art, or other interests.

Social Growth

Traits: Respects and shows affection toward parents. May have one best friend. Selective in friendships. May desire to befriend the "in" group.

Advice for Parents: Return admiration and love to child. Spend time together. Accept choice of friends or feelings to be with the "cool" group.

Emotional Attributes

Traits: Acts casual or relaxed. Enjoys privacy. Girls mature more quickly than boys. Seldom angry outbursts tend to be violent and quick. Worries about school and peer relationships.

Advice for Parents: Provide personal space and consolation as needed. Recognize and accept angry outbursts. Provide opportunities for appropriate socialization.

Moral Maturation

Traits: Carries a strong sense of justice. Has strict moral standards. Focuses more on what is wrong than what is right.

Advice for Parents: Recognize that child's sense of justice is limited to her own understanding. Accept concerns about right and wrong. Acknowledge injustice. Highlight good morals in action.

The set is continued below.

Possible Setbacks?

Children ages 10 - 11 years old often overcome many insecurities that have previously plagued them. Some children may have difficulties with the following: Rebellion. Extreme teasing. Bullying. Nervous stomach. Excessive procrastination. Lack of friends and involvements. Inappropriate relationships with older teens.