Age characteristics:
- Homogenous age groups: Children in middle childhood often form play groups with others who are close in age. They tend to enjoy similar activities and share developmental experiences, fostering a sense of camaraderie and understanding.
- Increased social diversity: As children grow older, their social circles expand. They may interact with children from different socioeconomic backgrounds, ethnicities, and neighborhoods, leading to greater social diversity within their play groups.
Sex characteristics:
- Gender segregation: Play groups in middle childhood often exhibit gender segregation, with boys and girls forming separate groups. This separation may be influenced by cultural norms, societal expectations, and differing interests and play styles.
- Mixed-gender groups: While gender segregation is common, mixed-gender play groups do exist. These groups may involve close friends or siblings of different genders and provide opportunities for children to develop social skills and relationships with peers of both sexes.