Children in this age group might:

• Start to form stronger, more complex friendships and peer relationships. It becomes more emotionally important to have friends, especially of the same sex.
• Experience more peer pressure.
• Become more aware of his or her body as puberty approaches. Body image and eating problems sometimes start around this age.
• Face more academic challenges at school.
• Become more independent from the family.
• Begin to see the point of view of others more clearly.
• Have an increased attention span.