There are skills and growth markers expected in a typical 4-year-old child. These milestones are physical and mental developments considered normal for this age group.

PHYSICAL AND MOTOR

During the 4th year, a child typically:

• Gains weight at the rate of about 6 grams per day
• Attains a height that is double the length at birth
• Shows improved balance
• Hops on one foot without losing balance
• Throws a ball overhand with coordination
• Skillfully cuts out a picture using scissors
• May not be able to tie shoelaces
• May still wet the bed (normal)

SENSORY AND COGNITIVE

The typical 4-year-old:

• Has a vocabulary of over 1500 words
• Easily composes sentences of 4 - 5 words
• Can use the past tense
• Can count to 4
• Will ask the most questions of any age
• May use words that aren't fully understood
• May begin using vulgar terms depending on their exposure
• Learns and sings simple songs
• Tries to be very independent
• May show increased aggressive behavior
• Readily discloses personal family matters to others
• Commonly has imaginary playmates
• Has an increased comprehension of time
• Is able to distinguish between 2 objects based on simple criteria such as size, weight
• Shows less egocentric behavior
• Believes that thoughts and emotions are causative events
• Lacks moral concepts of right and wrong
• Is rebellious if expectations are excessive

PLAY

As the parent of a 4-year-old, you should:

• Encourage and provide the necessary space for physical activity
• Instruct the child how to participate in, and follow the rules of sporting activities
• Encourage play with other children in the area to help develop their socialization skills
• Encourage creative play
• Read together
• Monitor both the time and content of television viewing
• Expose the child to different stimuli by visiting local areas of interest