Between ages six and eight, children make big leaps in how they think, learn, and understand the world around them. They’re gaining independence, building friendships, and starting to apply rules and routines more consistently. At this stage, most children can follow directions, recognize what helps them stay safe, and begin taking more responsibility for daily tasks.

As they move through the early elementary years, learning becomes more structured. Schools use Colorado’s Academic Standards to guide instruction across key subjects.

These years lay the foundation for confidence, curiosity, and healthy habits, both in and out of the classroom.

Give your child responsibilities. Ask children to help with household tasks, such as making their bed or setting the table. These tasks help children develop a sense of responsibility.

Talk to your child about friends, school and what they look forward to. Help them learn patience by requiring them to finish a task before doing something they want. Praise good behavior and encourage your child to take on new challenges.

Set clear rules and stick to them. Be clear about what behavior is OK and not OK. Encourage your child to think about the consequences before acting. Continue to read to your child. Do fun things together as a family, like playing games and going to community events.

Use discipline to guide your child, not punish. Help children understand a better way to react and behave. Don’t just focus on what not to do. Help them understand what to do. Praise them for positive behaviors and responses.

Middle childhood (ages 6–8) is a key time for children to develop confidence, resilience, and a positive sense of who they are. Children build strong self-esteem when the adults in their lives help them feel capable, connected, and valued.

Children need:

• Security: Feeling safe, supported, and confident about themselves and their future.
• Belonging: Knowing they are accepted and loved by family, friends, classmates, and their community.
• Purpose: Having direction and meaningful ways to express themselves and work toward goals.
• Personal pride: Building confidence from overcoming challenges and solving problems on their own.
• Trust: Believing in themselves, their abilities, and the people closest to them.
  Responsibility: Opportunities to show what they can do without constant supervision.
• Contribution: Meaningful ways to help at home, at school, or in the community, reinforcing that they matter.
• Encouragement and support: Positive feedback that recognizes effort, progress, and kindness—not just accomplishments
• Family pride: Understanding their heritage, spending time with extended family, and feeling connected to family traditions.

These experiences create the foundation for confidence and motivation that will carry children through school and beyond.