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Developmental milestones record - 4 years

Definition

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.

Information

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

Page Content:

Normal childhood growth milestones - 4 years; Growth milestones for children - 4 years; Childhood growth milestones - 4 years