Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0

Normal Development: 10 Years Old

Physical Development

physical growth and development varies enormously among this age group
is energetic and spirited
is usually awkward
strives to be physically fit
is fascinated with how the body works
may be curious about drugs, alcohol, and tobacco
continues to revel in bathroom humor

Emotional Development

fluctuates between dependent child and independent pre-teen
becomes increasingly self-conscious

Social Development

seeks approval for being "good" from significant people
becomes preoccupied with the opposite sex
relates to peer group intensely and abides by group decisions
succumbs to peer pressure more readily
does not want to be "different"
continues to participate in small groups of same sex
confides constantly in best friend
can be fickle

Mental Development

is eager to learn and master new skills
is proud of doing things well
is concerned about personal capabilities
has internalized standards of right and wrong to some degree

Each child is unique. It is therefore difficult to describe exactly what should be expected at each stage of a child's development. While certain attitudes, behaviors, and physical milestones tend to occur at certain ages, a wide spectrum of growth and behavior for each age is normal. Consequently, these guidelines are offered as a way of showing a general progression through the developmental stages rather than as fixed requirements for normal development at specific ages. It is perfectly natural for a child to attain some milestones earlier and other milestones later than the general trend. Keep this in mind as you review these milestones.

If you have any concerns related to your child's own pattern of development, check with your pediatrician or family physician.


Written by Donna Warner Manczak, Ph.D., M.P.H.
Copyright 1999 Clinical Reference Systems