What should a nurse advise a parent regarding the normal development of a young school-aged child?

When considering the normal development of a young school-aged child, advising parents about periods of shyness is particularly relevant. It is common for children in this age group to experience shyness or social anxiety, especially as they begin to navigate broader social interactions, such as those in school. These periods can be a natural part of their development, allowing them to learn social cues, build relationships, and develop self-confidence in a supportive environment.

Tolerating shyness provides the child with the necessary space to explore social situations at their own pace, ultimately helping them to gradually overcome any discomfort they may feel in social settings. This supportive approach encourages emotional and social growth, rather than forcing interaction, which could lead to increased anxiety or withdrawal.

The other options involve concepts that do not align well with the typical developmental milestones for young school-aged children. For instance, while nightmares can occur, they are more commonly reported in preschool-aged children rather than being a characteristic trait of school-age children. Group activities can be beneficial, but mandating participation might not respect a child's individual comfort levels and can be counterproductive to their social development. Similarly, using punishment for acts of independence contradicts healthy parenting practices and could hinder the child's sense of autonomy and self-exploration.