Between the ages of 3 and 5, children are still growing quickly, and are continuing to practice their large and small motor skills. Child care providers can support preschoolers’ physical and motor development by ensuring that children eat well-balanced meals and snacks, by building in plenty of time for active play and by planning a wide variety of activities to encourage motor development. The lists below give an idea of what to look for in the physical development of preschool-age …
Preschool-age children between ages 3 and 5 are active, busy learners who enjoy a wide variety of activities. Working with preschoolers can be rewarding for child care providers because they are self-directed, self-motivated, creative and love to play. In order to plan a curriculum that keeps preschool-age children learning and growing, child care providers need to understand how 3- to 5-year-olds grow, think, use language, understand feelings and relate to other people. The following articles provide basic information about children’s …
Between ages 3 and 5, young children gain a better understanding of their own feelings and emotions, and become more competent at interacting with other children. They may be able to talk about their feelings, respond appropriately to others’ emotional signals, and regulate their emotions. They begin to understand how others feel, start learning how to negotiate and take turns and practice social problem solving when playing with others. Here are some common social and emotional milestones child care providers …
Many preschoolers have problems sharing, taking turns, and negotiating roles when they play together. These day-to-day conflicts are great opportunities for child care providers to help 3- to 5-year-olds practice the skills needed to resolve disagreements. Even the youngest preschoolers can learn the basics of conflict resolution with appropriate help and guidance from supportive child care providers.
Learning to handle conflicts in productive ways is an important social skill that children will …
