Child Behavior at Four to Five Years Old

Rearing children is both a privilege and a huge responsibility. Each stage of child development has its own unique joys and challenges. Navigating each of these stages is what keeps parenting both interesting and challenging.

  1. Motor Skills

    • A 4 to 5-year-old child should be able to swing, climb, hop and turn somersaults. He should be able to stand on one foot for at least 10 seconds. He should use a fork, spoon and knife at the table and be able to copy simple geometric shapes.

    Language Skills

    • A 4 to 5-year-old should be able to give her name and address, and be using four to five word sentences. She should be able to follow multi-step directions, retell part of a story that she has just heard read aloud and name at least four colors.

    Social Skills

    • A child in that age range should enjoy playing with and imitating his friends. He should be asserting his independence and be able to distinguish things that are real from things that are imaginary. It is typical for 4 to 5-year-olds to vacillate between obedience and stubbornness.

    Concerns

    • Talk with your pediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's development. He or she will be able to determine if your child's development is on track or if there is reason for concern.

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