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Age 5
Wants to tie shoes.
Needs to help with chores.
Investigates everything- including fire. -
Age 6
*Is fiercely independent, a real "know it all".
*Is obsessed by rules.
*In perpetual motion, especially at the table. -
Age 7
All they think about is playing.
Feel mistreated by everyone, withdraw from trouble and complain.
Do care what others think about them. -
Age 8
Believes all rules are black and white and has trouble playing with peers.
Boys want to play with boys and girls want to play with girls.
May cry when tired and has stomachaches when worried. -
Age 9
Fiddles with things and is increasingly awkward.
Friends are more important than mother.
Rebels against too many directions and direct orders. -
Age 10
Learns to disobey in small rebellions: doesn't mind immediately, argues.
Sees rules as flexible and makes excuses for all misbehavior.
Demands that friends keep promises. -
Age 11
Want guidance from parents but not lectures.
Body changes cause embarrassment and self-consciousness.
Girls' behavior becomes eradict as hormonal influences take over. -
Age 12
Develop strong friendships.
Often embarrassed to be seen in public with parents.
They begin to understand how others feel. -
Age 13
High energy levels.
Looks become important.
Become increasingly sensitive (feelings easily hurt) -
Age 14
Sense of humor changes
Hormones trigger strong emotions
Begin developing own ideas on social issues -
Age 15
Can be confused about own potential and responsibilities.
Has less energy, which may appear as laziness.
Loves or hates school. -
Age 16
Is less impulsive and shows better judgment.
May get summer job or attend special camp – separate from home.
More oriented towards the future– plans for college. -
Age 17
More in control of moods.
Stronger relationships with friends and less conflict with parents.
Feel the need to be independent. -
Age 18
Less influenced by peer pressure.
Enthusiastic and idealistic about future.
Think they are adults, so rules may need to be reaffirmed if still living at home.
