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Middle Elementary (Ages 8-10)
Can follow multi-step instructions: At this age, children should be able to follow multi-step directions. These directions could involve two different tasks or completing one item before the other.
Complete homework with minimal supervision: At this age, children begin to take on more responsibility. When completing homework at home, offer assistance as needed, but remind your child that they need to advocate for themselves and seek out assistance as needed!
Start to plan and organize their schoolwork and personal items more effectively: Children and students should begin to manage their items and supplies independently. This may involve being accountable for turning in library books and submitting homework or permission slips without reminders. Or, keeping their desk organized, being able to put their laundry away correctly, making their beds, etc. Older siblings can also be encouraged to help their younger sisters and brothers.
Better at managing friendships: Managing friendships becomes increasingly important as students get older. Being able to manage their friendships might mean knowing who is a good friend and who is not a good friend. It might also mean that the child can move between friend groups without causing rifts or bad feelings.
Understanding others' feelings: Another important skill children will need to learn is acknowledging and understanding the feelings of others. A huge factor in this is being able to recognize or “read” the person and how they are feeling. For example, if someone is upset, are they sad or mad? Also, it’s important for the student to realize that they do not need to absorb the feelings of others but be sympathetic to their feelings.
Resolving conflicts on their own: While it will still be important for children to seek counsel from adults in a lot of situations, learning to solve their own problems (minor ones) is a big step towards independence. Students should be able to “walk away” from situations they don’t like or where they are not being respected, respond to name calling or mean words with a phrase that allows them to stand up for themselves and end the discourse, and recognize when the problem is bigger than what they are able to handle themselves.
Set up a Homework Schedule: Students should begin to monitor their schedules and care for their time and tasks. Most classes and schools have a set schedule for homework and lessons, which allows students to prepare a schedule for themselves at home. Students will know to expect homework on certain nights and can then plan accordingly.
Encouraging independence involves providing age-appropriate responsibilities and supporting problem-solving skills. Remember, tasks and expectations will vary depending on the child. As your child works through their tasks, offer positive reinforcement and praise for their efforts and accomplishments!
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