Practice Skills for the Development of Adolescence
Children need to learn age-appropriate skills to grow into healthy, well-rounded adults. Unfortunately, things like rushing through school work can cause stress, which isn’t ideal for development.
In childhood, it’s important to balance academic learning with life skills like sensory learning, imagination, socialization, and emotional management. After all, children don’t just have the opportunity to develop in school — they also have time outside it.
But some families can get so hung up on academic success that they neglect social or emotional skill development. This is problematic because children could miss out on vital interactive experiences that would help them later in life.
Development of Children Aged 8-14 Years Old
At these ages, children are bursting with curiosity. They use reasoning to think and make decisions, although their thoughts and attitudes may be influenced by friends. This comes from their desire to be accepted and understood by those around them.
Children at these ages also start getting interested in the opposite sex. In essence, there is a growth of gender-based roles in girls and boys, which will follow them into later life.
With that said, it is necessary that parents pay close attention to their growing and curious children. Make sure what they take in is accurate or filtered appropriately — children absorb everything they hear, whether right or wrong, and it can significantly shape their thoughts and attitudes.
In Addition to Classroom Knowledge, What Else is Needed?
It’s so important for children not to only learn in the classroom but to also gain essential life skills. Some of these vital life skills include:
- Communication
- Creativity
- Resilience
- Self-management
- Cooperation
- Negotiation
These skills can be practiced both in and outside the classroom setting. Having said that, a child who excels in life skills but falls behind in academics may have a tough time later.
What is the Importance of Family to a Child’s Development?
Children are a product of their environment, and family is a part of that. Because today’s society is full of challenges and temptations, parents should give their children the tools they need to navigate it.
Tools like reasoning and critical thinking are essential in helping children distinguish between accurate and inaccurate information. And if a child can resist temptation and make good choices, that’s a success.
Additionally, the support and encouragement of parents help children feel confident and valued. Knowing they are not alone in the world gives them a sense of security and belonging.
The best way to support a child’s development is to encourage their interests! If they’re focused on something they’re passionate about, give them the space and resources to explore it.
As they grow older, continue to emphasize the importance of learning and personal growth. Don’t put pressure on them to achieve things beyond their capabilities — this can damage their confidence and sense of self-worth.
