Northwest Spokane Pediatrics

Child Development

Weeks


What should I expect from my 4-year-old?

Behaviors

  • Idolizes parents.
  • Seeks approval from adults.
  • Tests limits constantly.
  • Often prefers to play alone.
  • Alternates between shyness and extroversion.
  • Enjoys imaginative and imitative play.
  • Has attention span of no more than a few minutes.
  • Argues with other children.

Neurodevelopmental

  • Still cries and hits at times
  • Speaks about 1,000 words.
  • Simple sentences are common.
  • Use pronouns appropriately
  • Uses plurals
  • May show fear of unfamiliar objects or activities
  • Nightmare can be very scary. And they can remember those powerful dreams.

Physical

  • Jumps, gallops, tiptoes, runs
  • Can walk backward
  • May stumble and fall frequently
  • Rides a tricycle
  • Undresses self, but needs supervision when dressing

Nutrition

Meals should be a time for family to sit together without interference from radio or television. This should be a comfortable social time to discuss things amongst children and adults. Snacks should be healthy. Avoid sugar sweetened beverages.

Safety Tips

Prevent Fires and Burns
  • Practice a fire escape plan.
  • Check smoke detectors. Replace the batteries if necessary.
  • Keep matches and lighters out of reach.
  • Turn your water heater down to 120°F (50°C).
Car, Pedestrian, and Play Safety
  • Never leave your child alone in a car.
  • Everyone in a car must always wear seat belts or be in an appropriate booster seat or car seat.
  • Hold onto your child's hand when you are near traffic.
  • Do not allow riding of a tricycle or other riding toys on driveways or near traffic.
  • All family members should use a bicycle helmet, even when riding a tricycle.
  • Practice crossing the street. Make sure your child stays right with you.
Stranger Awareness
  • Teach your child their first and last name.
  • The child should also know who their relatives are.
  • Teach your child never to go anywhere with a stranger.

RED FLAGS

  • Says only one or two words at a time.
  • Can not answer “who” or “what” questions.
  • Does not initiate conversations or only reports what others say.
  • Strangers understand less than ¾ of what your child says

(Excerpted from Spokane Regional Health District’s Infant Toddler Network.)