As a parent of a preschooler, you can:

• Provide your child with as many opportunities to learn as possible.
• Give your child toys that help learning.
• Talk to your child about his or her experiences.
• Read to your child.
• Be consistent in your disciplines.
• Provide your child with opportunities to play with other children.

Milestones to look for: (These are only guidelines. Each child is different, and may do things at different times. If you see your child is 6 months or more behind on any of these skills, talk to your child's doctor.)
At or about:	A preschooler usually:
4 -5 years	jumps, climbs, and skips throws balls overhand begins to use scissors and hold pencils and crayons brushes own teeth begins using imagination (dress-up, imaginary friends, play house) completes toilet training prints some numbers and letters speaks in sentences most of the time tells stories from pictures knows shapes

Safety tips:

• Teach your child to buckle his or her seat belt every ride.
• Have your child wear a helmet when riding a bicycle.
• Teach your child street safety: stopping at the curb, not crossing the street without a grown-up.
• Teach your child to tie his shoes in double knots, to prevent tripping.
• Plan and practice a family fire drill in your home every 6 months.
• Teach your child his or her address and phone number.
• Teach your child not to talk to strangers.
• Teach your child how to call 911.
• Learn First Aid and CPR.
• Post emergency numbers next to your phone.

Toy ideas:

• Books
• Dolls
• Puzzles
• Paper and crayons
• Blocks, tinker toys, legos

---

We subscribe to the HONcode principles of the Health On the Net Foundation

Information and links found on the UT Medical Group, Inc. web site are neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you think you may have a medical emergency call your healthcare provider immediately.