How They Grow in Kindergarten

Does your child have a short attention span -- coloring books one minute, playing dress-up the next? Find out what experts define as typical five-year-old behavior.

How They Grow in Kindergarten

Where They Are
The average five-year-old is enthusiastic, helpful, and conforming. He:

  • Attempts only things he knows he can do.
  • Needs attention, affection, and praise.
  • Is energetic and fidgety.
  • Has a short attention span.
  • May show opposite extremes of behavior.
  • May become less well-behaved as the school year progresses.

    Where They're Going
    At five years old, your child is learning to understandherself. You can help by encouraging her as she:

  • Develops a positive, realistic self-image.
  • Learns to respect herself.
  • Begins to understand her own uniqueness.
  • Gains awareness of her feelings.
  • Learns to express feelings.
  • Learns how to participate in groups.
  • Begins to learn from her mistakes.

    Brought to you by the American School Counselor Association