Understanding how children develop at this age helps instructors create lessons that are safe, fun, and effective. Physical Characteristics:

• Energy levels vary; children may need rest or free play to focus better
• They enjoy challenging themselves—allow safe experimentation and creative expression
• Coordination is improving but inconsistent; stopping, turning, or staying in line may be difficult
• Motor skills are still refining; progress may come and go, so be ready to simplify tasks if needed
• Upper and lower body separation is developing, allowing more complex movements (e.g., rotating the upper body while moving the back foot)
• Bones are soft, so children are more prone to injury; emphasize safety rules clearly and simply

Intellectual/Cognitive Characteristics:

• This is an age where children may lose interest if they have a difficult experience
• Games and activities should create positive experiences for everyone (“win-win”)
• Childrenwork well in pairs; matching them for activities can be effective
• They are developing independence and may want to create their own style
• Upper and lower body separation is developing, allowing more complex movements (e.g., rotating the upper body while moving the back foot)
• Keepinstructions simple and use fun, clear language they can understand

By keeping these points in mind, instructors can support growth, confidence, and enjoyment while teaching skateboarding.