MIDDLE CHILDHOOD FACT SHEET

Physical Developmental Milestones

During the Middle Childhood years, 6-11 years old, children have increased their abilities in the following
areas: running speed to more than 18 feet per second, vertical jump from 4 to 12 inches and broad jump
from 3 to over 5 feet, throwing and kicking speed and distance and accuracy, and increases in the ability
to catch small balls thrown over greater distances. Also, hand dribbling changes from awkward slapping
of the ball to continuous, relaxed, and even stroking. (Berk, 2013, Chapter 5, Page 179).
Language Developmental Milestones
At the beginning of this stage children are able to use complex sentences, follow complex directions
without repetition, and have adult-live conversations. Mid-stage, children begin to understand syntax and
grammatical structure. They have increased conversations with adults.
Cognitive Developmental Milestones
During this stage children understand concepts of today, tomorrow, and yesterday. Children of this age
also understand right and left. They begin to develop friendships with peers and teachers. They are able
to recall parts of stories, and sing songs. They also have an increased attention span and can ignore
distractions. They are eager to please and excel.

One sign that may signal atypical development during this period of development could be a delay in
language development in sentence structure or speech. Parents should consult with a qualified speech
therapist.
One strategy that families can use to influence their childrens learning and development during this
period of development is to increase conversations, introduce new vocabulary words, and begin to allow
the child to make some important choice on their own to develop a sense of responsibility.

Reference: Berk, L. E. (2013).Child development. (9th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.

Developmental Milestones Typical Development

Physical
Periods of uneven
growth of bones,
muscles, and organs
can result in awkward
appearance

Cognitive
Logical thinking with
limited ability to
extend logic to
abstract concepts

Social-Emotional
Shows a need to
develop a sense of
accomplishment

Language
Masters syllable stress patterns
signaling subtle differences in
meaning.

Appetite increases

Some early
adolescents cant
think ahead to
consequences of
their actions

Intense self-focus
worrying about what
others may think

Appreciates the multiple meanings

of words, as indicated by
metaphors and humor.

Reasoning
Internalizes
many norms
of good
conduct,
including
prosocial
standards
Gradually
understands
ideal
reciprocity

Atypical Patterns
Act Early by Talking to Your Childs Doctor if Your Child:

1. Exhibits learning disabilities such as difficulties with reading, writing and/or math,
concentration, excessive movement and acts impulsively.

2. Shows signs of emotional instability such as depression.

Social Influences Children can be influenced easily at this age. They want to fit in and their behavior
can be influenced by peer pressure.
Cultural Influences Cultural dress and traditions could influence a childs behavior at this age Child
could act rebellious due to wanting to fit in with the trends or peers.