About Your Early Years Child

Early years refers to ages five through nine, when children are in their first several years in school and are developing new skills, abilities and friendships. Everything from the way they think to the way they move will change and become a little more "grown up" during these years. Even though they may tell you that they are "big kids" now, they are still developing in many ways and will likely still have occasional incidents of bedwetting.

Their social development changes rapidly during these years as school and other activities give them the chance to meet new people and make new friends. During these years, talking and listening to your child is important, because you won't always be able to see what they are doing yourself. Relationships become more complicated during these years. Find out about friendships and listen for any sign that bullying is occurring in your child's life.

Providing positive and healthy discipline, to encourage positive behaviour, will be important during these years. You will also want to be aware of your child's use of media and communications technology and encourage the development of responsibility.