Normal Development: 8 Years Old

Physical Development

• Accident prone, especially on the playground.
• Has more control over small muscles. Writes and draws with more skill.
• Has a casual attitude toward clothing and appearance.
• Seems to be all hands and arms.
• May be concerned about height and weight.
• Seems to have boundless energy.

Emotional Development

• Starts to realize that others also feel angry, afraid, or sad.
• Is easily embarrassed.
• Gets discouraged easily.
• May put themselves down or be very modest.

Social Development

• Can be argumentative and bossy.
• Can be generous and responsive.
• Shows greater ability to understand the needs and opinions of others.
• Always seeking compatible friends.
• Especially likes to belong to informal "clubs" formed by children themselves.
• Also likes to belong to more structured adult-led groups such as Scouts.
• Starts to display a sense of loyalty.
• Enjoys secrets.
• Shows some hostility toward the opposite sex.
• May question duty to help with household chores.

Mental Development

• Is often idealistic.
• Is keenly interested in projects and collections.
• Is proud of completing tasks.
• Resists adult guidance at times.

These guidelines show general progress through the developmental stages rather than fixed requirements for normal development at specific ages. It is perfectly natural for a child to reach some milestones earlier and other milestones later than the general trend.

If you have any concerns about your child's own pattern of development, check with your healthcare provider.