Child Development Stages at Age Four

During their fourth year, children are undergoing a variety physical and mental changes. Physical growth is slower for preschool-age children than it is during infancy, but the brain continues to develop rapidly as children explore their world, gaining new skills and experiences. Important physical, cognitive, emotional, social and language milestones are reached by the end of the fourth year of life. Skills acquired at this age help to prepare children for the increased discipline and interaction of elementary school.

Physical

• By the age of 4, a child may command advanced motor skills. He should be able to go up and down stairs with no support, walk backward, hop, jump and stand on one foot for a few seconds at a time. He also should be able to throw a ball over-handed and catch a ball that is bounced to him. Fine motor skills also are advancing, allowing 4-year-olds to dress themselves, begin to write letters, draw shapes and use scissors.

Cognitive

• A 4-year-old's cognitive development allows them to begin to understand time, such as morning, afternoon and night. She can name colors and objects, remember portions of stories, understand three-part commands and may be starting to learn how to count. Children at this age have rapidly expanding imaginations, which allow them to engage in elaborate fantasy play, such as imitating their mothers or fathers.

Emotional

• Because of their rapidly expanding imaginations, 4-year-olds have difficulty separating fantasy from reality. They may develop fears at this time, such as monsters. Preschool-age children also may experience vivid dreams, nightmares and night terrors.

Social

• By the age of 4, children begin to take an interest in other children. They may cooperate more with other children, be more open to sharing toys and begin to negotiate for things they want.

Language

• Children command a large vocabulary by their fourth year. They also understand some basics of grammar, such as speaking in short but complete sentences and putting together brief stories. A4-year-old should be able to speak clearly enough for strangers to understand.