The nine year old child's relationship with his parents, especially with Mom, is much improved. Though she is not very responsible about performing routine tasks, she is willing to stop what she is doing to respond to a request from her parents. She especially loves to be sent on an errand, or to be responsible for cooking a meal. She can even be left home alone for a short period. She is easily disciplined as long as it is done in a matter of fact way without criticism or shaming. In great contrast to eight, nine is not highly motivated by money or rewards. She begins to gain her satisfaction from a sense of reponsibility within the family. She also gets along well with her siblings, and can be given the responsibility of watching a younger child. She is kinder to her younger siblings now, less likely to be strict or mean to them.
Nine year olds often have one best friend, with whom they love to talk endlessly. They are very critical of the opposite sex and boys and girls rarely play together. Organized, large group play is still enjoyed, especially baseball. They often form short-lived informal clubs, and also enjoy participating in formal clubs such as Scouts.
Play and Pastimes The Nine Year Old Child
Book Series by Louise Bates Ames
