7 - 10 years

These are the confidence building years. Time to choose activities, develop talents, and pursue interests. Get music lessons. Get into art. Get into theater or dance. Join a sport, club or activity. Learn to cook. Take responsibilities. Show them how to make their beds. Let them help prepare meals. Have them put away laundry. Give them a plant to nourish. Care for a pet. Understand the difference between following and leading. Let them feel the rewards of their independent accomplishments. Help them grow, learn and have fun.

Again, stay close and keep talking to your kids. If you see something special in them, tell them about it. Show them. Help them develop that quality. Show them other sides of the city, country and world. Travel. Help them understand other points of view. Analyze other’s behavior and talk about it. Make your feelings known and ask about theirs. Ask them questions about things for which you don’t have answers. Challenge their imagination.

Stay in touch with teachers. Help organize and monitor homework. Know their friends. Have their friends to your house and make them welcome.

Don’t let them win easily at games you play together . . .