Factors affecting cognitive development in middle childhood include home environment, parental involvement, genetics, disabilities, social skills, and school environment. Neglect or abuse can hinder development, while love and attention can enhance it. Nutrition, exercise, and self-image also play a role.
There are many factors that play a role in cognitive development in middle childhood. A child’s home environment, the amount of time spent teaching them new skills, and how well the child interacts with others may play a role. Children who have been abused or neglected may have average or even above average intelligence, but may develop more slowly. Those raised in a nurturing environment with attentive parents or caregivers often develop more rapidly. There are also some disabilities that can severely impede or impact cognitive development in children in middle childhood.
Genetic factors play a role in cognitive development during middle childhood. Children born to intelligent or highly skilled parents have a tendency to be intelligent themselves. This is not always the case, but families with “good genes” are more likely to pass on intelligence or skills.
Genetics may also play a role because some disabilities that can affect cognitive development in mid-childhood are also passed down from parents to children. Many times the parents will not have the disability themselves, but they may carry genetic abnormalities that can cause them. Down syndrome, for example, is more common in older mothers than younger women are pregnant. While these women typically do not have Down syndrome, they do carry potential defects that can lead to disability.
Another important role in cognitive development in middle childhood is the environment. Children who are given a lot of love and attention usually develop more quickly and fully than those who don’t. Parents who work with their children in academic learning areas and who play with their children every day are actually helping them develop important skills. During play, children learn problem solving, fine motor skills and language development. Children also learn faster if they are given the chance to explore and play with different objects and perform various activities.
The reverse is also true. Neglected or abused children may have slowed cognitive development during middle childhood and beyond. They are often not given a chance to explore and play freely, and they may also be ignored and have little opportunity to learn at home. These kids may also be acting up in school, setting them back even further. Children who are abused or neglected often lack social skills as well. This makes it harder for them to interact with other children, which is a crucial part of development for young children.
In addition to parental influence, children are also influenced by the friends they keep and their school environment. Dealing with bullies, stress, and other negative influences can play a role in some children’s cognitive development. Some studies have also shown that nutrition, adequate exercise, and a positive self-image can also influence cognitive development in middle childhood. Just as adults tend to function better when taking care of their bodies, kids are often able to achieve more and focus better in school if they’re fit and healthy.
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