Summer-Break Grade-Schooler

What this stage is like

When you find something that looks fun, your body moves before your head does. New games, unfamiliar streets: you touch them, walk them and check them out for yourself. Happy or disappointed, it shows right on your face, so people around you can tell how you feel at a glance. Making plans isn’t really your thing, and sometimes you look up and it’s already evening. But being able to enjoy every day to the fullest is a wonderful talent. When it’s time to dive into somewhere new, or to brighten everyone’s mood, this full-speed energy is your best weapon.

Sound familiar?

• ✓You meant to do it “for a minute,” and suddenly it’s evening
• ✓When you spot a new snack, you just have to try it
• ✓When you find something fun, you want to tell someone right away

Everyday quirks

New things to do keep popping into your head, so you often jump to the next one before finishing the first. Getting ready and tidying up wait until later, and sometimes you’re hunting for things right before you head out.

Other stages

• Mental age 6–11Summer-Break Grade-Schooler
• Mental age 12–15After-Club Middle-Schooler
• Mental age 16–19Spirit-Week High-Schooler
• Mental age 20–26First Year Living Alone
• Mental age 27–35Got-It-Handled Go-Getter
• Mental age 36–49Everyone’s Go-To Listener
• Mental age 50–64Life Veterans Club
• Mental age 65–88Tea-Time Zen Master