Growth and Development

As your child approaches four years, he/she understands new information, starts to explore their environment and begins to problem-solve.  Your child becomes increasingly independent and is able to share feelings, needs and wants.  However, you still need to help your child feel safe, secure and loved.

Your preschooler needs rules and structure  

Rules help control behaviour as your child is able to predict what will  happen if rules are disobeyed.

Most of the time a child can understand directions, requests, concepts and stories.  A child may even invent rules, such as, “ I only eat sandwiches that are cut into triangles.”  Your preschooler may spend more time talking about the rules of a game, than actually playing it.

For more information see Behaviour and Discipline and Positive Discipline Tips for every age.

New Friends, New Skills

Preschoolers often have a special friend they enjoy playing with and will engage in co-operative play.  As your child participates in play activities he/she can build on new movement skills such as balancing, running, jumping, galloping and moving to music in rhythm!

Growing up can be stressful

Independence can be exciting but also difficult for your preschooler. Your child may become upset when being separated from you.

● Your child may develop nervous habits like chewing fingernails or twirling hair. 

● Always help your child feel comfortable in new situations. 

● Talk about new experiences before they happen.  For example, before school starts, practice walking to school or to the bust stop.  You could also visit the school and meet the teacher ahead of time.

Remember, your preschooler needs love and attention, especially when being challenged.  Teach, guide and comfort your child!

Reference

Invest in Kids Foundation: What a child will be depends on you and me; A resource kit for child’s first five years.