Between the ages of 3 and 6, children generally experience a significant amount of physical and social development. This period of preschoolers' development is a very important phase for parents and children. It is a period of transition for the child and parents tend to learn along with their children. It is important to remember that while there are several general milestones that children will cross at a preschooler stage, different children will develop differently. Therefore, always ensure that you provide learning opportunities that are specific to your child's needs. Preschooler development can be...
...observed chiefly in the areas of cognition and physique.
Physical development of your preschooler will include advancement in skills like jumping, running, kicking or throwing. He/she will be able to catch a ball with greater precision, will be able to steer on his/her own and will be able to pedal a tricycle. These are the major motor skills that form part of preschooler physical development. There are other minor motor skills that your child will develop in the preschooler stage. For example, he/she will be able to draw specific shapes like a circle or a human form with various parts. He/she may be able to operate small gadgets like blunt scissors. Your child may also be able to dress on his/her own. At the age of four, your child will probably be able to use cutlery while eating.
Cognitive development in preschoolers is significant between the ages of three and five. Your three year old child will be able to use prepositions and pronouns, for instance. The three year old preschooler will also be able to make small sentences (three word sentences) and recognize plurals. At the age of four, preschoolers will be able to count at least up to four and can identify at least four colors. At this age, your child will be able to recite small rhymes and enjoy a certain amount of word play. At the age of five, children may be able to identify time and retain telephone numbers.
Given these significant advances in physical and cognitive abilities, your child will be ready to explore a great many possibilities in his/her everyday environment. Preschooler development is thus also fraught with dangers as children tend to test their physical and mental limits. It is important therefore to teach your child moderation and to encourage peaceful interaction with his/her peers.
