TYPICAL AGE-SPECIFIC PATTERNS
FOUR: Enthusiastic Explorers
At the age of four, children exhibit exuberant behavior and a keen interest in the world around them.
Enthusiastic, bossy, and adventurous behavior.
Interest in bodily functions and fascination with shocking words and reactions.
Strong and changeable emotions, intense laughter, and anger.
Vivid imagination, difficulty discerning between reality and fantasy.
Difficulty with impulse control, requiring supervision around younger siblings.
FOUR AND A HALF: Exploring Reality
By four and a half, children begin to differentiate between reality and imagination.
Volatile emotions, including easy laughter and tears.
Increased demanding and persistent behavior.
New awareness of "good" and "bad" and interest in real-life stories.
Spiritual curiosity and potential nighttime anxiety alleviation through bedtime prayers.
FIVE: Bright-Sided Explorers
At five years old, children exhibit a positive outlook on life and increased self-awareness.
Enjoyment of learning new things and appreciation for routine and security.
Improved understanding of personal limits and increased confidence.
Affectionate relationships with family members and pets.
Occasional nightmares and scary dreams about animals.
FIVE AND A HALF: Challenging Growth
Around five and a half, children may experience increased defiance and tension due to their growing need for autonomy and desire to experiment with independence.
Defiant and combative behavior, frequent temper tantrums, and restlessness.
Tensional outlets like chewing or tapping objects.
Potty accidents due to excitement and increased colds and aches.
Challenges with fine motor skills, including holding pencils and reversing letters.