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 6 Years
EATING
Children at this age can make very pleasant tablemates. They often love to help set the table, choose menu items, serve themselves, and eat and chatter at the same time. Fortunately, 6-year-olds seem to have less of a need to get up frequently during a meal. They may still want to eat the same thing four out of every seven days. Six-year-olds may still have a tendency to dominate meal-time conversation, but are generally becoming more aware of the importance of manners, taking turns, and following the rules, including at the dinner table. While they should be allowed to make some food choices for themselves, children this age should still be given parental guidance. Without it (and parents who set a good example), most kids will select junk foods such as chips and cookies over vegetables and other wholesome foods. Although healthy food choices and adequate intake are important, children should not be expected to clean their plates, or to eat adult-size portions. SLEEPING Six-year-olds are often easier to get to sleep than they used to be, probably because they are tired out from school and other activities. However, many may seem to be grouchier in the morning. Waking during the night is much less common, perhaps because children this age do not take naps, and a typical night's sleep is almost 11 hours for the average six-year-old. Bedtime stories may be the child's favorite time of the day. Even if your six-year-old is an accomplished reader, don't feel that you need to give up reading to him at bedtime, since this is an activity you can do together (and that he's likely to enjoy) for many years to come. PLAYING Let your child be the guide in choosing and encouraging physical activity. Be aware that the physical and interactive skills needed for team sports such as soccer and baseball are not usually fully mastered by a majority of children for another year or so. If she shows interest, be sure to teach your child the rules of the game and help her to enjoy team sports, but consider also letting her try out sports such as swimming, skating or dancing -- activities in which she can "compete" against herself. Activities such as hiking are a wonderful way to spend time together (without a television), get some exercise, and learn about nature all at the same time. Children often try several sports or activities before they find the right one. The secret to introducing your child to athletics and exercise is simple: have fun! There are many ways that parents can make physical activity a positive experience for their children early on, including:
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