5 Important Skills for 5-Year-Old Children That Parents Need to Train Early

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YOGYAKARTA - The age of 5 years is the preschool period for children or the transition period from toddlers to school children. At this age, they develop new skills every day. Here, guidance from parents is needed so that their development runs optimally. Therefore, parents need to know what skills need to be trained when children are 5 years old.

5 Important Skills Parents Need to Train Children at 5 Years Old

Reported by Good Housekeeping, here are 5 important skills that parents must train children at the age of 5:

Understanding the Difference between Right and Wrong

At the age of 5, children generally have the ability to distinguish between what is right and what is wrong. Psychologist Dr. Eileen Kennedy-Moore, Ph.D., says that this understanding is still related to simple things, such as being afraid of being scolded or breaking the rules.

However, according to Kennedy-Moore, knowing the rules does not necessarily mean doing it, especially when the child is angry. Therefore, he suggests parents help children learn to understand the reason behind a rule.

Try asking, "Why is it important to take turns when playing on the swing?" This can help them imagine how others feel, he explains. You can also narrate the feelings of others so that they understand better, for example, "Jeffrey feels left out because you all have dinosaur toys while he doesn't."

Understanding the Feelings of Others (Empathy)

For adults, being able to understand the feelings and desires of others is a common thing, but for children aged 5 years, this is a basic skill that is developing and needs parental guidance.

"The ability to imagine another person's perspective is a fundamental skill for all relationships. It helps children be more willing to share or take turns. It allows them to comfort a friend who is sad," Kennedy-Moore explained.

In this case, said Kennedy-Moore, you can encourage your child to verbalize his thoughts and feelings. "You can say, 'You feel frustrated because you want to go to the park, but we have to go grocery shopping,' or 'You're happy to see Grandma!' "

In addition, you can talk about other people's thoughts and feelings in everyday life or while reading a book or watching a movie. You can do this by commenting on what you observe.

You can also ask open-ended questions to help children visualize and express the feelings of others. For example, "How do you think he felt when it happened?" or "Why do you think he was angry?"

Managing Emotions

Parenting psychologist, Dr. Heather Wittenberg said managing emotions is not only a challenge for adults, but also for children aged 5 years. At this stage, their brain development is very rapid, so emotions can feel more intense.

"Children aged five years are in the midst of a wild and extraordinary brain development that will eventually make them more sensitive and able to express more complex feelings and social interactions. Until that process subsides, don't be surprised if they become more irritable or experience more tantrums," he explained.

You can help them by ensuring adequate rest and good nutrition. In addition, said Wittenberg, it is also important to provide space to discuss and process difficult feelings and social situations they are experiencing.

Being a Responsible Part of the Family

Many parents are surprised to see the ability of 5-year-olds to help at home. Wittenberg said at this age, they can already do simple tasks such as tidying up toys or bringing dishes to the kitchen. This involvement is important to build a sense of responsibility.

"They can and should help more than we often realize. Responsible, with good reminders and guidance, of course, for tasks such as carrying their food plates from the table to the sink, storing their clean plates and glasses, and sweeping up dirt with their own handkerchiefs and wipers, helping your child develop a basic sense of being an important contributor to the family," explained Wittenberg.

However, it is important to give an example until the child can do it himself. Children need to see, understand, then try gradually.

Developing New Motor Skills

At the age of 5, children begin to develop various new motor skills. They can try movements such as jumping, running more stably, even starting to learn to swim or basic gymnastics. No wonder you often hear, "Mom, look, Mom, look, Mom, look!"

As a parent, you can support by providing a safe space to play and explore. Providing appreciation for their efforts is also very important. Simple support like this can have a big impact on children's development.

"Encourage their development and give them big compliments when you notice all their new abilities," says Wittenberg.

Those are the 5 important skills that parents need to train when their child is 5 years old. Wittenberg reminded, even though children at the age of 5 look more independent and develop rapidly, they are still children. They still need hugs, read stories, and full attention from parents.

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