Developmental Milestones for 11 to 14-year-olds

Children in this age group:

• Typically think in concrete ways. But they are gradually starting to grasp abstract and symbolic concepts.
• Start to see that issues aren't just clear-cut and that information can be interpreted in different ways.
• Typically focus on the present. But they're starting to understand that what they do now can have long-term effects on them.
• May be self-centered and can be insensitive to others.

Children in this age group:

• Start to establish their own identities and become more independent from their families.
• May form strong friendships and prefer to be with their friends or on their own rather than with family members.
• May have periods when they are sullen and aloof.
• May look to friends, instead of parents, for advice.

Children in this age group:

• May be a little awkward or clumsy. Their brains need time to adjust to longer limbs and bigger bodies.