Final answer:
Middle childhood, covering ages six to ten, is a time of emotional growth but can also be marked by emotional fragility. Self-esteem can change quickly based on social interactions, and behaviors can sometimes revert to those seen in earlier childhood stages. It's an important developmental phase for emotional and social learning.
Step-by-step explanation:
Relative to emotional state over the life span, middle childhood is considered a period of emotional growth but also potential fragility. Children in this stage, covering the ages of six to ten, exhibit more independence and higher physical activity. However, their self-esteem is often delicate and highly reactive to peer acceptance and social interactions within their environment. Unlike the rapid emotional shifts observed in early childhood, where toddlers can swiftly move from joy to sadness, middle childhood sees a more complex emotional landscape.
In the realm of their emotional development, school-age children's perception of themselves can fluctuate significantly. Rejection from peers or not being picked for a team can lead to sharp dips in self-esteem. Despite taking on responsibilities and engaging with schoolwork, children in this age bracket can occasionally display immature behavior, reminiscent of the 'terrible twos', and may still have tantrums. They also develop a sense of body modesty and start to express a desire for privacy.
It's a pivotal time where children are cementing their cognitive abilities and forming deeper social bonds, while also learning to navigate the complexities of their emotional responses to the world around them.