Age-Level Characteristics

All children grow through similar stages at similar ages. Some characteristics will occur earlier or later in some children. Knowing how children think, feel, and act in general helps you relate to them and plan lessons that will help them in their spiritual growth.

COMMON CHARACTERISTICS

Have a good memory; eager to learn

Many accept Christ at this age

WHAT THIS SAYS TO THE TEACHER

Many receive the Holy Spirit baptism

Provide them with foundational Scripture verses.

Provide opportunities to accept Christ. Give doctrinal training also.

They seek heroes Aware of their need to please God through prayer and Bible reading

New Age-Level Characteristic spread

Provide instruction and opportunity to receive this gift.

Can help others

Provide them with stories, books, or videos of Christian heroes. Let them pray. Encourage daily devotions. Explain Bible stories simply and honestly try to answer questions.

Are influenced by teachers

A class project of helping someone encourages this.

COMMON CHARACTERISTICS

Have a strong sense of justice

Are influenced by their peer group

Ready to discuss simple social problems

Be a good example. Live a life consistent with what you teach.

Keen competitors; will often compete with others to gain recognition

WHAT THIS SAYS TO THE TEACHER

Preteens watch how the teacher acts. Be a good example. Teach them that God is faithful and just. Show what the Bible says about these things.

Group acceptance is important and should be recognized. Allow times for them to work with others who may not be part of their group.

They are aware of their world. Discuss ways your class can help in the community.

Provide for team competition. Show them the right and wrong ways to compete. Discuss what the Bible says about competition.

PHYSICAL

Are in the healthiest time of life

May be restless and tired at times

Girls are more developed physically

COMMON CHARACTERISTICS

Are good readers

Like challenge

Developed sense of time and distance

Like to take part in group planning

Respond to visual stimuli

Enjoy creating stories, poems, drama, and art

MENTAL

Expect them to attend Sunday School on a regular basis.

A physical change is beginning. Provide a variety of activities.

Girls are typically more mature than boys by about a year. Some girls will be self-conscious. Be sensitive to individual needs.

WHAT THIS SAYS TO THE TEACHER

Provide Christian books to be borrowed and returned.

Stimulate interest through such things as puzzles, contests, quizzes, and codes. Discuss more Bible facts and places. This is a good age to introduce the use of maps when explaining biblical places.

COMMON CHARACTERISTICS

Able to make choices

Can get absorbed in doing some thing and won’t hear you talking

Experience unsteady emotions and may be moody

E M O T I O N A L

Allow groups to participate in planning socials and class events.

Use posters, charts, and pictures.

Direct their creativity into drama, songs, art, and other participatory methods. Be sure these relate to the lesson.

WHAT THIS SAYS TO THE TEACHER

Give them things to do. Offer choices of activities when possible.

Channel their energy into creative things. Let them become absorbed in these. Do not insist on a strict schedule. Be flexible.

Accept them. They are undergoing emotional changes and at times cannot help themselves. Your understanding will help.