Children develop at different rates, but developmental milestones are things most children can do by a certain age. How a child plays, learns, or moves are measurable and can offer important clues about their development.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and the South Dakota Parent Connection, movement and physical development milestones for three year old’s include: climbing well, running easily, can pedal a tricycle and walking up and down stairs with one foot on each step. Parents and caregivers can help the three-year-old’s physical development by playing with them outside. Go to the park or hiking trail, allowing your child to play freely and without structured activities.
By the time a child is four years old, they should be able to hop and stand on one foot for up to 2 seconds. A four-year-old should be able to pour and cut with supervision and mash their food. They should also be able to catch and bounce a ball most of the time.
A great way to help with physical development at this age is to play outdoor games like tag, follow the leader, and duck, duck, goose! Parents and caregivers can also play a child’s favorite music and dance with their child, taking turns copying each other’s moves.
It is important to visit with your child’s doctor at every visit about the milestones your child has reached and what to expect as they grow. For more information to www.cdc.gov/milestones or try the CDC’s free Milestone Tracker app.