Traits of Boyhood and Girlhood
At the beginning of the period of childhood for which the Junior Course is intended, approximately nine years of age, there appears to be in the life of the normal boy or girl a real transition as the traits and interests of earlier years give way to those of full fledged boyhood and girlhood. Strange premonitions of impending physical and mental changes now appear, with suggestions of riper years that are rapidly approaching. The physical and mental changes of this period are accompanied by an awakening of social consciousness. This is noticeable in the friendships formed, in the increase of love and sympathy for others and in the dawning recognition of obligations toward others. The opposite of the same tendency is reflected in the sense of rivalry and emulation and, especially in boys, in the developing spirit of pugnacity, tempered with a tendency to defend the weak. This growing social consciousness brings with it also a stronger consciousness of self, a clearer recognition of right and wrong and an awakening of conscience which now begins to take the place of rules made by others as a guide to action.