School Age
How did this happen? Your preschooler has somehow become a full-fledged elementary school student.
The elementary school years are often a sweet spot in childhood. Children are more capable and able to manage themselves than they were as preschoolers, but they still delight in spending time with you. They are developing deeper friendships, discovering their interests, and becoming increasingly thoughtful about the world around them.
At the same time, these years matter more than many parents realize. As children navigate school, friendships, extracurricular activities, and growing responsibilities, they are developing the emotional intelligence, resilience, social skills, and self-management habits that will serve them for the rest of their lives.
School-age children may seem increasingly self-sufficient, but they still need us more than they let on. Your relationship with your child remains the foundation for everything else. When children feel connected, understood, and supported, they are better able to handle challenges, recover from setbacks, and develop confidence in themselves.
The good news is that your influence is still enormous. Before the tween years arrive, you have a unique opportunity to strengthen your connection with your child, nurture healthy habits and values, and help them build the skills they'll need to thrive.
The resources below will help you navigate the elementary years—from friendships, school adjustment, and emotional growth to homework, big feelings, and the important conversations that arise as children begin to understand the wider world.
Start Here
Support your child's growing independence while staying closely connected during these important elementary school years.
Emotional Intelligence & Friendships
School-age children are learning to navigate friendships, understand other people's perspectives, and manage increasingly complex emotions. For more support, visit the Emotional Intelligence Guide and Social Skills and Friendship Guide.
School Success & Growth Mindset
Help your child build confidence, resilience, and a love of learning. These resources focus on school adjustment, homework, motivation, and developing the habits that support lifelong success. For more, visit the Learning & School Guide.
Big Feelings in Big Kids
Even older children sometimes melt down when they're overwhelmed, frustrated, or stressed. Learn how to support emotional regulation and resilience while staying connected. For additional support, visit the Emotional Intelligence, Anxiety, and Resilience Guides.
Tough Conversations
As children grow, they begin asking bigger questions and encountering more of the wider world. Learn how to talk about difficult topics in ways that build trust, understanding, and emotional safety. For more support, visit the Communication Guide.
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