Social Emotional Development - 8 Year Olds
“If children feel safe, they can take risks, ask questions, make mistakes, learn to trust, share their feelings, and grow.” ~ Alfie Kohn
Eights. Middle childhood is well on its way and these kiddos are jumping out of bed with adventure on their mind. This excitement for life, newness, and learning is contagious. Here’s what we can begin to expect from this age group.
Increasing social engagement and focusing on peers
Forming larger friend groups and best friends
Stronger awareness of fairness and morality
Developing sense of humor
Exaggerating stories
Displaying a greater desire for privacy
Developing awareness of body image
Shifting emotional states and increasing awareness of complex emotions
Understanding how money works and financial habits solidifying (I know, surprising - read more about this 2013 Cambridge study)
Now, how do we support this social emotional development?
Assigning and completing short tasks can help build confidence
Encouraging group sports, teams, or clubs – developing an identity within a greater community
Helping your child consider other people’s point of view – this helps build empathy
Offering more responsibilities at home – doing own laundry, caring for the family pet
Supporting children with emotion regulation strategies and calming techniques
Encouraging problem solving and brainstorming solutions
Starting to have conversations about navigating peer pressure
Educating your child about financial habits and delayed gratification (age-by-age guide)
If you have any questions, please feel encouraged to reach out christina@christinakingfamilytherapy.com.
Yours In Service,
Christina King, LMFT 145704
Citations and Resources:
Wood, Chip. 2017. Yardsticks: Child and Adolescent Development 4-14 (4th ed). Center for Responsive Schools.
(2024, July 16). 8-Year-Old Developmental Milestones. Parents, Childhood Development. https://www.parents.com/8-year-old-developmental-milestones-620729