Physical Development from four to six By: Emma and Gabriela

Height and weight The rate of physical growth from ages four to six is only slightly slower than from ages one to three. The average increase in height during these years is 2 ½ to 3 inches. Most children gain 4-5 lbs. in this period.

Proportion and posture Between child's fourth and seventh birthday the body becomes straighter and slimmer. The shoulders widen and erect. The chest round from birth to age three, broadens and flattens. The legs lengthen rapidly, grow straighter and firmer. The child balance and coordination improves as well.

Teeth A smile showing missing teeth is typical of a six- year- old. At about that age, children begin to lose their primary teeth. Over time, the primary teeth are replaced by permanent teeth.

HOW MOTOR SKILLS DEVELOP 4 Years Small motor Skills Large Motor Skills Gallops and hops Laces Shoes Jumps forward as well as in place Dresses and Undresses self Throws overhand with body control Cuts on line with Scissors

5 Years Small motor skills Large motor skills Ties shoelaces Stands and balances on tiptoe for short period and skips, alternating feet Ties shoelaces Draws recognizable person Skillfully picks up very small items Buttons, snaps, and zips clothing

6 Years Small motor skills Large motor skills Throws and catches ball with more ease and accuracy Builds block towers to shoulder height Cuts, pastes, molds, and colors skillfully Rides a bicycle Writes entire words

Weight Problems From ages four to six, children may look chunky or slim and still be healthy. But before you decide if your child is over or under weight, check with your doctor. Poor food choices can also be a cause of weight problems. With help children can learn to balance their meals.

Teaching Children about Nutrition One of the best things that a parent or caregiver can give a child is to teach them how to eat healthy By learning about nutrition, children an make wise food choices

Nutrition at Home Parents can take advantage of children’s natural curiosity at this age. One example is to let your child help you in the kitchen, while you are cooking dinner.

Teaching Self-Care Skills When your child is in the age group of 4 to 6 their physical abilities improve. They develop the skills to get dressed by them selves, how to keep them selves clean, and begin to care for their clothes

Washing & Bathing Kids at this age have lost interest in washing and bathing Praise for a job well done is better than nagging and complaining. Setting up and maintaining hygiene routines helps children accept these tasks as expected behavior

Getting Dressed Four-, five-, and six- year- olds are usually able to dress themselves independently. Children this age have definite likes and dislikes. Some become attached to a favorite garment, as they do to a particular toy. Once children begin to care about what they wear, they can learn basic clothing care. To start, they can fold and hang up clothes and put dirty items in the appropriate place. Putting clothes away is simpler if the child has storage within reach. Hooks at eye level, low rods, and handy shelves encourage children to take care of their clothes.

Activity Design a brochure promoting healthy and good nutrition of young children to parents. For ex: serving sizes, activities, foods etc. Get creative Use the website: mypyramid.gov for help if needed and for ideas.