Cognitive Development:
* Concrete Operational Thinking (Piaget): They are moving away from preoperational egocentrism and developing the ability to think logically about concrete objects and events. They understand conservation (that quantity remains the same despite changes in appearance), but struggle with abstract concepts.
* Improved Memory and Attention: Their attention spans lengthen, and they develop better strategies for remembering information.
* Increased Vocabulary and Language Skills: Their language becomes more complex, including the use of more sophisticated grammar and a larger vocabulary. They can understand and use metaphors and similes more effectively.
* Development of Reading and Writing Skills: This is a major focus during primary school.
* Improved Problem-Solving Skills: They begin to approach problems in a more systematic and logical way.
Social and Emotional Development:
* Increased Independence: They become more self-reliant and capable of managing their own needs.
* Developing Social Skills: They learn to interact with peers in more complex ways, including cooperation, negotiation, and conflict resolution. Friendships become increasingly important.
* Understanding of Social Rules and Norms: They internalize societal rules and expectations.
* Emotional Regulation: While still developing, they are learning to manage and express their emotions more effectively. They may still experience intense emotional outbursts, but are learning coping mechanisms.
* Self-Esteem Development: Their self-esteem is influenced by their academic performance, social relationships, and physical abilities.
Physical Development:
* Continued Physical Growth: They experience steady growth in height and weight.
* Improved Motor Skills: Fine motor skills (like writing and drawing) and gross motor skills (like running and jumping) continue to develop.
* Increased Physical Coordination and Agility: They become more coordinated and able to perform complex physical tasks.
Moral Development:
* Developing a Sense of Morality: They begin to understand and internalize rules about right and wrong, often influenced by parents, teachers, and peers. Their understanding of morality is often concrete and rule-based.
It's important to note that these are general characteristics and individual children develop at different paces. There is a wide range of normal development within this age group.