Description
The Preschoolers’ growth and development
refers to the change or growth that occurs
during the period of time from 2 to 5 years
of age. It is a period of time when the
child’s body loses its baby shape, and
cognitive and social skills continue to
mature and develop.
Statistical studies
show the following:
The preschooler like the toddler grows and
develops in his or her own unique pace,
however during this time parents should pay
close attention to see any great variation
from the universally standard norms.
Signs
The preschooler grows and develops both
physically, cognitively, emotionally and
socially.
Physical
Growth During
this period of time growing slows
down though the body undergoes
dramatic changes. The child loses
his/her baby fat, while growing
taller, thinner, with some muscle
development.
The
average preschooler gains about 4-6
pounds per year and approximately
2-3 inches annually. By the time the
child turns 5 years old the
permanent molar teeth grow in.
Physical Development
The preschoolers are able to independently
dress including buttoning and zippering.
Brushing teeth still requires some
assistance.
Motor skills continue to improve as the
preschooler learns to be more coordinated
and their balance greatly improves. Towards
the end of this period of growth, around the
age of 5 the child will be able to walk
steadily both forward and backward. He/she
walk up and down stairs one foot at a time,
as well skip, jump and climb. At this time
he also learns to throw and catch a ball and
to ride a tricycle independently.
Emotional Development The preschooler goes through a very
erratic emotional developing vacillating
between being clingy and dependent or
exhibiting strong independent behavior at
times rebellious and disobedient. Socially
they begin to develop the ability to share
and cooperate with others, while starting to
develop friendships.
Cognitive Development This period of a child’s life is often
called the “magical years” since the child
tends to think in magical terms. They
believe that their thoughts can cause things
to happen. They are also very egocentric
thinking all that happens around them is
related to them. Preschoolers begin to
understand certain concepts such as size,
numbers, and time but do comprehend the
concept why things are right or wrong. It
is the period in the life of a child where
curiosity is at its outmost and the child’s
most prevalent word is “why.” His verbal
acuity greatly improves as well, the average
number of words spoken and understood are
about 300-2500 words.
Questions to ask the
expert
•
How many years do you have experience dealing with preschoolers
•
Is your experience with the normally developed child or those with
deficits.
•
Can your recommend preschools or other programs that will enhance my
child’s development
•
Certificates and Licenses
•
References
General Tips
•
Seek medical attention
if the child’s physical and/or cognitive
development is significantly delays.
•
It is important for the parent to dedicate time to
read to the preschooler as well set aside
time for play.
•
Set boundaries for behavior and teach your child
what is acceptable and what is not
•
Improve the child’s physical development by
offering him/her opportunities to expand
their energy and use their muscles.
•
Give your child opportunities to explore the
environment around them while maintaining
safety
•
Develop in your child healthy eating habits
•
Set a sleeping schedule for your child.
•
Learn effective parenting skills
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