Primary School Years: Children Age 6 Through 8 Although the life
of a primary-age child has changed dramatically with the
introduction of formal schooling, developmental characteristics
through this period closely resemble those of earlier years.
Children are still working hard to understand and construct
social relationships, deal with their emotions, and learn about
their world through hands-on manipulation of objects and
interactions with peers and adults. Christy is a normal, busy
6-year-old who enjoys practicing newly acquired skills. Although
her physical growth has slowed, she likes to test the limits of
her body with challenging activities such as acrobatics and jump
rope. Christy just got a new bicycle and is working hard to
master two-wheeling. Other activities that require good balance
such as skating and skiing are also fun for her. Christy has
many friends, most of whom are other girls. Her playmates change
regularly, however, with new friends being added and old ones
set aside. Christy is making