Four Years

At 4 years old, your child likes making friends. It is a good time to talk to him about his feelings. You can help him learn about taking turns and sharing.

Playing Together

Now is a good time to be creative. Your child will enjoy making things and playing silly games with you.

Let your child cut paper, glue, mold playdough, paint, and do other art projects.
When you read to your child every day, ask questions about the story. Let your child tell you a story.
Run, jump, or skip together. Create a mini-obstacle course.
Let your child help you make and serve meals.
Take your child to the library, zoo, and museums. Many places have free special events for young children.
Limit TV time to no more than 1-2 hours a day, if you watch it at all. Do not let your child have a TV in her room.

Keeping Your Child Healthy

Don’t forget those well-child checkups.

Your child will need a four-year checkup with the doctor. The doctor will weigh and measure your child and look in your child’s eyes and ears. Your child may need shots.
Your child will need regular dental checkups every six months.
Help your child brush her teeth two times a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of toothpaste.
When you brush your child’s teeth, look for white or brown spots.
If you don’t have health insurance, contact the Children’s Health Insurance Program at 1-877-543-7669 (1-877-KIDS-NOW) to find out about low-cost programs.

Keeping Safe

Your child is probably better at following rules and directions, but you still need to pay attention and watch her to keep her safe.

Your child might be ready to move to a booster car seat. Check to see if she is the right height and weight.
Put bug spray, paint, and other toxic items out of reach.
Hold your child’s hand when crossing the street or walking through parking lots.
Practice bicycle safety. Always have your child use a helmet.

Watch Your Child Grow

Watch for your child to:

Hop on one foot.
Sing a song from memory.
Identify himself and others as boys and girls.
Express feelings like excitement, fear, and sadness.
Explain how everyday things are used (“What do you do with a fork?”).
Trace shapes on paper.

Your child may be eligible for free Pre-Kindergarten! Pre-K is a great way to help your child prepare for school by improving her reading, writing, and social skills. Find our more by visiting www.prekindergartenprepares.com or contact your local school for more information.