Physical Development

    The most notable physical change during sixth grade is the onset of puberty. Puberty typically begins between ages 8 and 13 for girls and ages 9 and 14 for boys. For both sexes, these hormonal fluctuations are correlated with growth spurts that transform children into teenagers as their bodies develop.

        · Increases body strength and hand dexterity
        · Improvements in coordination and reaction times
        · Girls begin to menstruate
        · Boys’ voices deepen and may sometimes crack or break; Adam’s apple, or larynx, gets bigger
 

Intellectual Development

    As sixth graders become more aware of themselves, their interests and hobbies become more apparent and specific. They also start to ponder their futures.

        · Interested in reading fictional stories, magazines, and how-to project books
        · May develop special interest in collections or hobbies
        · May be very interested in discussing a future career
        · Capable of understanding concepts without having direct hands-on experience
 

Emotional/Social Development

    By sixth grade (ages 11-12), children are exhibiting a higher awareness of themselves and strive to gain social acceptance. They often use made-up languages, secret codes, and elaborate rituals to strengthen the bonds of friendship.  Close friends of students in this category are of the same sex, though a heightened interest in members of the opposite sex is becoming more apparent. Children may begin to question authority more frequently. This includes criticizing parents and their supervision. Although they disagree with any supervision, they often feel scared and lonely when left alone.

        · Begins to doubt parents and authoritative figures
        · Bonds with friends by sharing made-up languages, secret codes, etc.
        · Enjoys being a member of a club
        · Increased interest in competitive sports
        · Outbursts of anger are less frequent
        · May belittle or defy adult authority
 

Teacher Tips

    This stage of development can be a tumultuous time for many children. Internal and external pressures to succeed, paired with the onset of puberty, can affect a child’s home environment and the classroom. Listed below are some ideas for relieving this stress in the classroom.

        · Provide opportunities for older students to help out with real skills. Cooking, sewing, and
        designing dramatic play props are useful ways to utilize their skills.
        · Provide time and space for an older child to be alone. Time to read, daydream, or do
        schoolwork uninterrupted will be appreciated.
        · Encourage children to participate in an organized club or youth group. Many groups
        encourage skill development with projects or activities than can be worked on in
        your childcare program.
        · Encourage older children to help you with younger children, but don’t overdo. Avoid
        burdening older children with too many adult responsibilities. Allow time for play and relaxation.
        · Provides opportunities or older children to play games of strategy. (i.e. checkers, chess
        and monopoly)
        · Support an “open-door” policy – let students and children feel free to express themselves
        in an adult way.
        · Allow time for social interaction throughout the day. (Small group work, etc.)
        · Create lessons that allow students to express themselves and their personalities creatively.
 

Resources

National Network for Child Care
http://www.nncc.org

Parent’s Place
http://www.parentsplace.com

American Medical Association
http://www.ama-assn.org
 
 
 

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