Your Preschooler: A Developmental Checklist: 3 to 4 Years
Enormous development and growth occur during this year. A child who can only scotble at her third birthday may be able to draw a circle with dots--a face--at her next birthday. Of course all children are individuals; they develop at their own pace. Skills and abilities change over the course of the year and not all children match every single item on the checklist when they turn three. The list gives you a very general sense of the direction your child is headed as the fourth birthday approaches. If you have any concerns about your child's development, consult with your physician.
Physical Development
Walks in single file
Uses a toilet
Grasps crayon between thumb and fingers
Can copy an X and an O
Uses child-size scissors with parental supervision
Tosses a ball underhand or overhand
Catches a large ball with extended arms
Jumps up and down on two feet
May be able to hop a few times on one foot
May be able to skip
Intellectual Development
Can count to 10 from memory, although the concept of counting objects is not developed
Can say or sing the alphabet
Engages in fantasy play
May have an imaginary playmate
Can complete tasks
Can follow simple instructions
Social And Emotional Development
Enjoys interactive games
Takes turns when playing
Demonstrates interest in people outside family
Positive attachment to mother
Strong friendship with another child
Uses verbal skills to attract and exclude other children
Language Development
Understands and uses phrases me and you
Knows own first and last name
Can tell a complete story
Speaks in full sentences
Talks of self and others
Our parenting advice is given as suggestions only. We recommend you also consult your healthcare provider, and urge you to contact them immediately if your question is urgent or about a medical condition.