Alternative names 
Normal childhood growth milestones - 4 years; Growth milestones for children - 4 years; Developmental milestones record - 4 years

Definition
This article describes the skills and growth markers relevant to 4 year-old children.

Information

Physical and motor:

 
• During the 4th year there is usually a weight gain of about 6 grams per day  
• The height of your child during the 4th year should be double their length at birth  
• 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  
• Bed wetting at this age is still considered normal

Sensory and cognitive:

 
• Vocabulary has increased to over 1500 words  
• Easily composes sentences of 4 to 5 words  
• Can use the past tense  
• Can count to 4  
• The age when your child will ask the most questions  
• May use words outside their comprehension  
• May begin using vulgar terms depending on their exposure  
• Learns and sings simple songs  
• Tries to be very independent  
• Increased aggressive behavior  
• Readily discloses personal family matters to others  
• Imaginary playmates are common  
• Increased comprehension of time  
• Able to distinguish between two objects based on simple criteria (such as size, weight, etc.)  
• Less egocentric behavior  
• Believes that their thoughts and emotions are causative events  
• Lacks moral concepts of right and wrong  
• Rebellion is common if expectations are excessive

Play:

 
• 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

Medical Encyclopedia

All ArmMed Media material is provided for information only and is neither advice nor a substitute for proper medical care. Consult a qualified healthcare professional who understands your particular history for individual concerns.