In middle childhood, physical development occurs in more subtle patterns. It is more continuous compared to earlier life because children are involved in more physical and motor development (Glowiak & Mayfield, 2016). At ten years, I gained an average of 8 pounds and gained 3 inches in height annually. I was 72 pounds and about 5 feet tall. Research shows that growth occurs at a slower rate during middle childhood. However, gradual day-to-day increments add up more quickly. They are often not noticed by the child (Glowiak & Mayfield, 2016). My aunts and uncles noted my increments in growth since they came to visit only twice a year. In middle childhood, children bodies become more like those of adults by being slimmer with longer limbs.
Memory is crucial for successful learning in middle childhood. Children’s knowledge base broadens making it easier for children to master and memorize information (Churchill & Lippman, 2016). Problem solving and thinking skills develop considerably during this period. My parents indicate that they noted better school performance between ages 8-11. I focused on understanding key concepts and asked numerous questions on aspects that I did not understand. As the brain develops, children experience better meta-cognition and selective attention (Churchill & Lippman, 2016). I experienced better attention spans in school and begun topping the class. It is evident from analyzing my current cognitive skills, that longer attention spans are a strong trait I have developed since middle childhood.
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Social and emotional competencies are integral for children’s success in school, peer settings and later phases of life. According to Churchill and Lippman (2016), development of psychosocial competency in children builds confidence, relationships, problem solving skills and coping with emotions. I was bigger than most of my peers in middle school and experienced bullying because I was growing at a more rapid rate. I felt lower self-esteem and talked to my parents about it. Failure to develop secure and open attachments with caregivers at middle childhood leads to problems in dealing with emotions and communicating (Churchill & Lippman, 2016). They helped me realize that it was actually an advantage. I became proud of how my appearance and made more friends because I could engage in social interactions without thinking about how people perceived me.
References
Churchill, K. D., & Lippman, L. (2016). Early childhood social and emotional development: Advancing the field of measurement. Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology , 1-7. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appdev.2016.02.002
Glowiak, M., & Mayfield, M. A. (2016). Human growth and development across the lifespan: Applications for counselors . John Wiley & Sons Inc.
