Making friends, forming ideas, following rules … it’s all coming together now, just in time for school! Imagination also reaches new levels, and athletic abilities start to shine. Here, you’ll find ways to make creativity and problem-solving part of each day for your five-year-old, paving the way for continued learning and a “can-do” approach to life.
He draws recognizable pictures, writes his name, dresses himself and completes puzzles
She can solve problems and explain things
His friendships become stronger
She can sort things into basic categories
He can imitate your pose and tone of voice
She can finish activities without waiting for directions
He differentiates between “pretend” and “real” when playing
She begins to make comparisons and her memory expands
He can explain games to other kids
Toys that encourage creative expression
Doodle Bear Babies™ Puppy
Doodle Bear® Rose
Help your child learn more:
“Look what I made!” If you can, stop what you’re doing and check it out when your child wants you to admire his creations. Set aside a special time when you can focus on your child. Ask her to demonstrate her work, and praise her abilities.
Encourage self-expression. Can he explain why he's created a certain drawing or video? Or why she thinks her music sounds a certain way? Encourage talking about ideas and feelings.
Tour an art gallery or museum with your child. Let her critique the work, telling you what she likes best about it. See if the museum offers any kid-friendly activities.
Cars, vehicles and RC toys
GeoTrax® DC Super Friends™ The Batcave RC Set
Help your child learn more:
Everyday fun. Create a challenging roadway for your child's vehicles using everyday objects. Let him race his cars through paper towel "tunnels," roll them to the top of pillow "mountains" and maneuver them over a broom's bristles.
Be an announcer. Watch a short car race on TV. Instead of relying on the speedway announcer, turn the sound off and take turns calling the action!
All about safety. Turn an outing into a lesson in vehicle safety. Take a walk on a city sidewalk and point out the road signs and signals. Explain what they mean, and why it's important for motorists to obey them.
Children develop at their own pace and reach milestones at different times. The highlights mentioned in this website are approximate guidelines only. If you have any questions about your child's development, consult your healthcare provider.
Bug Hunt
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At this age, your child probably finds bugs fascinating! Have fun together on a Bug Hunt!
Materials
Pad of paper and felt-tip pens, or instant camera
Yard, park, nature walk, or other outdoor area
Magnifying glass
Bug identification book (optional)
Instructions
Walk or drive to a park or nature area. Bring a small pad of paper and drawing materials, or an instant camera, if you prefer.
Walk through the area and help your child find some bugs. Use a magnifying glass to get a closer look.
When you locate a bug, have your child draw a picture of it using her pad and pens, or take a photograph.
Continue your walk, looking for different bugs.
After you gather a nice collection, return home to organize the drawings or photos. If using a regular camera, have the film developed.
Lay the pictures or photos on a table and have your child examine the bugs. Ask her to look for features that are similar and different.
If you have a bug identification book, have your child try to identify the bugs and label them.
Safety
Be careful with bugs that bite and sting and watch for dangerous plants such as poison ivy.
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