13 Chapter Physical Development from Four to Six Contents Section 13.1 Growth and Development from Four to Six Section 13.2 Caring for Children from Four to Six

Section 13.1 Growth and Development from Four to Six Four- to six-year-old children grow and develop in many areas: height weight posture body shape teeth motor skills hand preference

Growth from Four to Six Children from ages four to six are always improving their physical skills. The rate of physical growth in this group is slightly slower than in ages one to three. 3

Growth from Four to Six Bodies are becoming straighter and slimmer. Balance and coordination improve. Children begin to lose their primary teeth. Children may thumb suck to handle stress. 4

Development from Four to Six Gross and fine motor skills improve during this time period. Children require guidance and practice to learn new skills. Children need opportunities to develop their motor skills. What are some common activities that help children improve their motor skills? 5

Development from Four to Six Fine motor skills use muscles in fingers, wrists, and ankles. Five-year-olds’ hand-eye coordination is good enough for pouring liquid into a glass. Most children have a preferred hand by last half of fifth year. 6

Section 13.2 Caring for Children from Four to Six Caregivers must provide for children’s nutritional needs, teach them about good nutrition, and teach them self-care. School-age children need to be taught about outdoor safety.

Health and Wellness Gaining weight at an appropriate rate and eating a variety of nutritious foods are signs that children are meeting nutritional needs for normal growth and development. Amount of food varied depending on weight and activity level Parents and caregivers can encourage good eating habits Forcing and child to eat, making an issue of eating certain foods, or using food as a reward may lead to poor eating habits and weight issues Immunizations are required before attending school. How can parents help children get a variety of nutritious foods?

Self-Care Skills There are many ways four- to six-year-olds can help care for themselves. Brush teeth, care for clothes, cleaning toys Comfort, durability, and economy are main guidelines for choosing children’s clothing. Personal hygiene, such as bathing and brushing teeth, are important for four- to six-year-olds to learn.

Sleeping and Toileting No need for naps by this age Caregivers need to set an appropriate bedtime. Need approx. 10-12 hours of sleep Independence in toileting increases. Parents and caregivers can take steps to help minimize toileting accidents. Use bathroom before leaving home Identify bathroom at public places Keep extra outfits in case

Outdoor Safety Children ages four to six spend much of their time playing outside. Outdoor safety should be discussed with four- to six-year-old children. Bicycles, traffic, and playgrounds can carry dangers of which children must be aware.

Growth and Development from Four to Six Chapter Summary Section 13.1 Growth and Development from Four to Six Children between the ages of four and six grow steadily, and their body shape changes. Permanent teeth begin replacing the primary teeth. From ages four to six, children refine their motor skills. 12

Caring for Children from Four to Six Chapter Summary Section 13.2 Caring for Children from Four to Six The eating habits children learn will influence their adult eating habits and health. Physical inactivity is a major cause of overweight in children. Children this age can wash and dress themselves and can help care for their clothes. They may still have toileting accidents. 13