Preschoolers' Development Guide: Years 3 through 5

Age 4 Years

• Can repeat a simple six-word sentence
• Washes own hands and face without assistance
• Stands on one foot
• Catches a tossed ball

Age 5 Years

• Follows commands
• Can tie shoelaces and button shirts
• Draws recognizable figures
• Uses scissors
• Climbs up and down stairs
• Skips

If you have concerns, don't wait to bring them to your pediatrician's attention. In the event of developmental delay, early intervention is your child's best friend and can help him or her get back on track toward healthy development through the use of physical, occupational, and speech therapies.

Diane Paul-Brown, director of clinical issues in speech-language pathology for the American Speech-Hearing Language Association, remarks, "If you think something's wrong, don't assume your child will outgrow it. If you're at all concerned, talk to a professional."