Social and Moral Development in Children: Ages 3 to 8

Mutual Influence Between Social and Moral Development

There is a mutual influence between social and moral development. Moral development is serene if there is concordance between patterns of adult behavior, teachers, and friends.

God Representations and Anthropomorphisms

• 6-7 years: Children often have anthropomorphic representations of God, such as an old, bearded, strong man.
• 7-10 years: The image of God is refined. He is seen as an omnipotent legislator and a loving God. Catholic children initially perceive God as a strong and wise man, then as a very large and powerful giant. Finally, He is understood less anthropomorphically, moving towards the concept of an invisible spirit.

Children 3-4 Years - Moral Aspect

Children begin to have a rough idea of what is right and what is wrong. Their moral criterion is based on what they perceive as good or bad. Their morality is heteronomous, based on authority.

Relationship with God

The relationship with God is not yet understood as a relationship with God. They perceive Him as someone special who made the world and is admired. They are contemplative of everything. They understand that God is good because He gave them their body and their parents. God, to some extent, is a prolongation of their parents. It's beneficial to speak to them about an almighty, creator God, a good and beautiful Father, and to emphasize creation, His tender love, and His protective strength.

The Child from 5 to 6 Years - Moral Aspect

There is no clear distinction between good and evil. They tend to think and repeat what their parents and teachers say. They distinguish between their own sense of justice and that of others. They develop a sense of reciprocity: "You give me, I give you." It's important to promote respect for others and things, to teach generosity and sharing. Their morality remains heteronomous. They develop an awareness of their actions and the harm they can cause, learning to apologize and forgive.

Relationship with God

They easily relate with God, especially in the field of feelings. They consider God almighty and the creator, convinced that He is good and protects them. They see God as a great Father who wants love, gives us life, and sent us Jesus out of love. Religious experience is very easy for them because their faith is very strong. For them, God has three critical connotations: almighty, good, and Father. It's important to emphasize His infinite love and that He demands a generous effort.

The Child from 7 to 8 Years - Moral Aspect

The evolutionary process clearly marks the end of one era and the beginning of another. They can clearly distinguish between good and bad with specific examples.

Relationship with God

Because they have faith, they spontaneously perceive that there is a God who exceeds them. They form their internal image of God and their relationship with Him. God is perceived as someone who loves them and gives them everything.