Ages and Stages: How Children Adjust to Life and Education | News | GIS

August 23, 2019
children of a young age in a classroom

As a private school in Botswana that offers creche , junior and senior primary schooling, we’ve got a higher understanding of each child’s needs at every stage of their development. With qualified and passionate educators throughout our school, every pupil gets the attention they require for success and a brighter future. 

Our reputation as a leading private school in Botswana has enabled us to contribute to the academic successes of many who pass through the doors of our classrooms. We’ve also come to form some strong relationships with these children and their parents, something that we believe truly sets us apart. Sharing information with the parents of our pupils is one of the ways we can ensure that they’re involved in their child’s development every step of the way. Here’s how your child adjusts to each stage of life and what you can do to help them along the way. 

Two years of age 
Our full-day creche is perfect for children as young as two years old. At this age, they are curious but also fearful and quite sensitive to separation from parents and their home environments. This means that routine is crucial for getting them settled. Although quite prone to separation anxiety at this stage of development, they need to discover their world. This means learning, playing and exploring. As a result, going to school is ideal for helping your child flourish and pave a sound foundation for their education.

Between the ages of three and five
This is also known as the busy period where your child learns to cut, draw, sing and express themselves. At school, they will be learning about numbers, letters, shapes and directions. This means that you should be reiterating these at home to make sure your child remembers them. There are also a lot of questions asked at this stage as your little one attempts to reason with the workings of the world. You should encourage this curiosity and answer questions to the best of your ability and in a way that they will understand. 

Although you might want to push learning activities at home, make sure you give your child ample time to play. At this age, they learn a great deal from playing. Reinforce things that your child does well in order to boost their self-esteem. 

From six to eight 
Your child has now started junior school and your baby has blossomed overnight. At this stage, they’re navigating homework, breaktimes and social relationships with their friends. They will have good, bad and even frustrating days. Some might be eager to go to school each day, whilst others are certainly more overwhelmed. Although “big school” can seem like a scary prospect, a good routine is a fantastic way to make the transition easier. Help your child get ready for the next day the night before and try and foster a healthy mindset to things like homework and extra murals. Be consistent with discipline at this stage so that you can set the tone for how they ought to behave. 

Nine to eleven
As they approach senior school level, children at this age walk the line between being little and rather mature. Some might even be starting puberty which is of course accompanied by lots of changes. At this age, children are able to think in a logical way and might enjoy tasks that incorporate some sort of responsibility. Parents should attempt to give them manageable tasks that hone their understanding of what it means to be responsible. Things like chores or caring for a pet or plant are a good starting point. Communication at this stage is key, particularly when things like puberty begin. Try and make sure the lines of communication are healthy and open ones so that your child is more likely to reach out to you if need be. 

Twelve and thirteen 
When your child becomes a teenager, you’ll be dealing with a different person from day to day. As they go through puberty and become more independent, they find their voice and form very strong opinions. Your child needs to know that they have your support, which means communicating and encouraging them at every crossroad. There might even be a girlfriend or boyfriend at this stage so be prepared. 

Supporting your child every step of the way
At Gaborone International School, a team of esteemed educators is qualified and passionate about helping your child reach their full potential. 
If you’re interested in an education that prepares your child for a bright and successful future, please click on one of the buttons below. 

To read more insightful blogs from our teachers and educational experts, click here
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