The following lists some common characteristics of
children's behavior, arranged by broad age groupings. However,
it is important to remember that not every child will fit into
these patterns. Each child is unique and will develop at his own
rate. These descriptions are intended to identify general
behavior only. Behavior in one age group may overlap that of
another group.
The Preschool Years (Ages 2 - 4)
The preschooler likes to be held and cuddled. Young
children learn trust and love first through touch. They are
absorbed in exploring their world, using all their senses, and
are insatiably curious.
The preschooler loses interest quickly and will often
interrupt conversations and stories. This should not be mistaken
as rudeness but simply as his inability to maintain long spans of
attention. He enjoys simple games, especially those with
repetition. Don't be surprised if he asks you to play the same
game or read the same story over and over. Doing the same thing
again and again gives him a sense of stability and order.
Provide short games and stories that encourage his
increasing mental and physical abilities. Activities with lots
of repetition afford him with opportunities for success in
mastering skills.
He enjoys simple scripture stories. Let him help with
telling the story by holding pictures. Keep the story simple,
explaining it in concrete, rather than abstract, terms.
The young child is aware of only his own wants and needs.
He is not consciously selfish; everything is filtered through his
viewpoint and how it affects him.
As a child approaches four years old, he is learning to
share but may occasionally still seem selfish. Praise him at
those times when he does share and accept his right not to share
at others.
Provide him with simple tasks to complete. He enjoys
helping and wants to feel useful. He has an equally important
need to explore his world and may rebel at safety restrictions.
He will not understand rules. If he disobeys a rule, he is
not being "naughty"; he just cannot foresee consequences.
However, consistency in applying rules will help him establish a
sense of order in his constantly expanding world.
Early Elementary (Age 5 - 7)
The early elementary age child expresses affection in quick
bursts and may display it at odd moments. While playing with
other children, he may run to a parent or leader for a quick hug
and then continue with his play.
He strives for independence, even though there are still
many things he can't do for himself. He may reject your help
even when he grows frustrated with a task that he is unable to
master. His hand and eye coordination has increased, and he
welcomes new challenges in games and activities. As he tackles
new tasks, help him identify his strengths. Be careful, though,
of labeling the child as "strong" in one area and "weak" in
another.
He continues to enjoy stories from the scriptures. His
attention span has increased, and he is able to sit for longer
periods listening. He will often have a "favorite" and may enjoy
acting out the story. Choose stories that give examples of
"good" behavior which he will want to copy.
This is the age to introduce rules but keep them simple. Be
firm and consistent in applying them. Show how obedience to the
rules will help him to get along with others and to feel good
about himself.
Late Elementary (7 - 11)
Up until this time, boys and girls have played together
without much regard to differences in sex. Now, they begin to
express preferences, i.e. boys choose to play with boys, girls
with girls; they are starting to become conscious of roles. They
begin to look to each other for examples and approval.
The late elementary age child enjoy games and may spend much
time discussing rules. Games help him learn about himself and
others. He starts to understand how rules apply to him. More
aware of competition, he is concerned about his performance and
may become discouraged or resentful if he fails to measure up to
what he perceives as the skill level of his peers. Fairness and
cheating, which until now have only been abstract concepts,
become important. Provide games that teach sportsmanship,
honesty and teamwork.
Though he wants to try new things, he may be reluctant for
fear of failing. Praise all attempts to explore new talents and
abilities. Recognize that his self-esteem may be fragile and
encourage him to find ways to feel good about himself.
He has discovered that many things are governed by rules.
Knowing the rules and how they apply is extremely important
because it helps him predict consequences--an important step in
reaching maturity.
At the same time, he is starting to question rules. He
wants to know "why." If explanations are fair and logical, he
will usually accept them. He is quick to identify inconsistent
or unfair rules.
He is ready for more complex scripture stories. Vivid
details add to his interest and understanding.
Recognizing the differences in these stages of growth can
help leaders adjust their expectations as they plan activities
and lessons.
