Because they are having more experiences, many things can affect how a child thinks and feels. Some situations can create stress and affect self-esteem. The middle childhood is a time to prepare for adolescence and to show their increased knowledge and independence. Up to this point, children have always looked up to parents as the source of information, but now children judge parents more and label their actions differently. There are signs of growing independence.
Children test their growing knowledge with possible back-talk and rebellion.
Common fears include the unknown, failure, death, family problems, and rejection. Children are beginning to see the point of view of others better. Children define themselves through their appearance, things they own, and activities They can control angry outbursts better and have a higher ability to handle frustration. Physical Development Growth is slower than preschool years, but steady. Eating levels may change as they grow.