2nd & 3rd Grade

​2nd & 3rd Grades
572 weeks until graduation . . .
 
What’s this phase all about?
Fairness and rules! “That’s not fair!” is the battle cry of this group.  Although still primarily concrete thinkers, 2nd & 3rd graders are beginning to understand some abstracts. Many are now aware enough to understand for the first time that the world isn’t fair – some kids aren’t good at sports, some kids don’t have enough food to eat, some kids don’t have any friends – but they’re still innocent enough to believe it could be fair if people would just follow the rules. However, some kids this age are notorious for demanding that everyone else follow the rules while forgetting that the rules also apply to them!

What blessings can you find in this phase?
This phase might be considered the golden age of childhood. Seven- and eight-year-olds are not entirely independent yet, but most are fairly capable when it comes to self-care, chores, and homework. Though aware of the world around them, they still approach life with enthusiasm and innocence. They often enjoy helping out and are now big enough to truly be helpful. They love to play but are old enough to sit through a whole movie. And, they still love talking to their parents. Kids this age are generally pretty awesome! It’s definitely the best of both worlds and a whole lot of fun so enjoy it!
 
How can you leverage this phase? 
2nd & 3rd graders are truly beginning to recognize what’s going on in the world around them. They are in the process of reconciling their ideas of how life should be with how it really is. Because of this growing awareness, this age group can really begin to absorb what the Bible says about how we should treat others. You can begin to lay a biblical foundation that will help them address bullying, racial prejudice, abortion, and other social issues they will have to navigate in the future. Involve them in volunteering. Let them see you meet the needs of others around you. This is a great age to instill the truth that not only does God love them, He loves others, too.    ​​