Child Care Today ©2012

Chapter 17: Teaching School-Age Children

Chapter Summary

Children ages six to twelve are considered school-age. Younger school-age children are in a growth plateau. Children enter puberty around age twelve. Large muscles provide improved coordination, while small muscle control is usually achieved around age seven or eight. School-age children are no longer bound by their senses to learn. They use valid reasoning to problem solve and relate cause-and-effect to actual objects and experiences. True discussions and debates and improved empathy begin during this period. School-age children want to put their skills to use. They begin to compare themselves to other people. Teachers should promote teamwork rather than competition alone. Fears become more abstract. Children show stress in physical and emotional ways. Friendships are more lasting and meaningful for school-age children. School-age children can be impulsive. They are still adjusting to similarities and differences among individuals, and may exclude others. Younger school-age children are very concerned with rules. Diverse environments encourage compassion and tolerance.

School-age programs usually operate before and after school, and are often part of a child care center. Ideally, child groups should be no larger than 20. School-age programs should provide leisure time for children to pursue their own interests. Anticipate equipment use during play and check equipment frequently for safety. Classrooms should be casual and comfortable. Learning centers should be designed to meet specific age-appropriate needs. A balance of daily routines and variety is best for school-age children. Teachers should plan activities for all development areas, but activities can be less structured. Children can benefit from mixed-age groups. Field trips can stimulate interest in the community. Clubs foster interests and build friendships.

School-age children do not need constant supervision, but do need chances to be active. Help school-age children learn responsible ways to groom themselves and maintain hygiene. Children this age enjoy games that challenge them intellectually. They use language and communication skills to understand the world. Encourage creativity among school-age children. Be available to help children sort out peer relationships and emotions. Give choices and encourage pride in cultural backgrounds to build self-esteem. Cooperative projects help build social skills. Clear, specific guidance expressed consistently in a respectful but assertive manner works best. Establish clear, firm boundaries and allow children to help set rules.