7 to 8: Exploring Skills
Since your child entered elementary school, you’ve undoubtedly noticed that your life is a lot busier. In first grade, homework becomes a fact of life, and your child may have joined a team or club. You may feel like a chauffeur instead of a parent!
By the age of 7 or 8, children’s skills have multiplied. They are able to combine a series of movements smoothly (for example, jump and catch a ball or perform a dance routine). They can write, draw, and paint with planning, precision, and completeness. They enjoy their new abilities and seek outlets to put them to use, whether at recess, the park, or in an after-school class or team.
There’s pressure to help your child develop skills in multiple forums: sports, the arts, and school, but no one wants an over-programmed lifestyle. How do you decide where your child’s talents (and your time and money) are best spent? You and your child will need to continuously evaluate what matters to each of you and then see how that fits with the family schedule (especially if you have more than one child), as well as family finances. These tips can make the selection process simpler:
Try to limit your child’s activities to three or fewer at any time. This includes school clubs, sports teams, and music lessons. Remember, good old-fashioned unstructured play provides many opportunities for skill development, too!
Encourage an active choice every season. While this could be a team sport, it doesn’t have to be: Think skating, swimming, or dance lessons. Active children are not only healthier, they also do better in school and have fewer behavior problems.
Think about the overall commitment for each activity. If a team meets three times a week, limit the number of other activities. Don’t forget to factor in practice time.
Sign up for an activity with another family you know. Your child will have a buddy and you’ll have a carpool partner.
