GET READY FOR MEMORABLE STATEMENTS

By this age, a child can speak in sentences... and long, wandering monologues. But you will be amazed and entertained by all the profound and uncensored things they say, like, "How did you get the wrinkles out of your hair?" and, "You're talking so much I can't hear you."

ADJUST FOR A CULTURAL SHIFT-SCHOOL

This means less time for play, more early-morning alarm clocks, and a higher demand for focused attention. While kids at this age thrive on routine and predictability, they also crave opportunities to have a little unstructured play, a chance to skip and run, to throw and catch, and to use their imagination. 

GIVE SOME UNDIVIDED ATTENTION

Where previously a kid might have been one adorable toddler drawing the attention of multiple adults, they are now in a classroom with multiple kids-some even as cute and as smart as they are. At school, at church, or on the soccer field, one thing is true: They want your undivided attention. So give it as often as possible. 

School is a crisis. Your now-preprimary kid is adjusting to big changes, whether it's school drop-off or lunch lines or new routines. but the stress of change can also be a platform for discovery and growth. The way you answer their questions, listen to their stories, and show up consistently will help them improve their abilities. 

THINKS LIKE A SCIENTIST

You help them learn when you... GIVE THEM CONCRETE EXAMPLES

WANTS TO KNOW "DO I HAVE YOUR ATTENTION?"

You capture their heart when you ... IMPROVE THEIR ABILITIES.

IS MOTIVATED BY FUN

You coach their moral abilities when you ... PLAY ON THEIR LEVEL.

YOUR PRE-PRIMARY SCHOOL KID IS CHANGING

PHYSICALLY

• Loses incisor teeth (6-8 years)

• Grows 5-8cm and gains an average of 3kgs.

• Able to ride a bicycle, roller skate, and jump rope.

• Draws a person with a body.

• Needs 10-12 hours of sleep each night.

MENTALLY

• Can focus on one activity for 5-15 minutes.

• Recognises and names numbers, shapes and colours.

• Knows the difference between need vs want, and real vs pretend

• Doesn't logically interpret cause and effect. 

SOCIALLY

• Wants to please and help adults

• Has a hard time asking for help.

• Needs guidance taking turns and losing well. 

• May show some (not much) gender preference for playmates

EMOTIONALLY

• Tends to be optimistic

• Can be fanatical about the truth

• Benefits from relaxation techniques (take a deep breath).

• Expresses feelings better through play and art rather than words. 

• Deals with fear and anziety by distracting themselves

• Highly sensitive to harsh criticism, tone, and body language