Stage 4 of 7, 6–9 years
Middle Childhood
Like a builder learning tools: they master skills one by one and enjoy seeing things work.
Logical thinking, reading and friendships develop. Children begin to compare themselves with others, so encouragement matters.
Common milestones
- Reading moves from letters to words to short books; writing becomes more fluent.
- Understands cause and effect and simple maths like addition and subtraction.
- Forms close friendships; learns rules of games and fairness.
- Gains hobbies and interests; attention span lengthens to 20–30 minutes.
How parents and carers can help
- Praise effort, not only results, to build a growth mindset.
- Read aloud together even after they can read alone.
- Encourage a few activities (sport, music, art) without over-scheduling.
- Talk about friendships and gently help them solve conflicts.