What to Expect At This Visit:
At ages 4-5 years old, your child will receive the following vaccines:
MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella), Varicella (Chickenpox), DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, & Pertussis), and IPV (Inactivated Polio).
Click here for the American Academy of Pediatrics Immunization Schedule.
Additional Vaccine Information: The American Academy of Pediatrics
Development:
Note: Please know that the development of each child is unique and special. The following information on development is general and meant for informational purposes only. If you are concerned about the development of your child, please let your pediatrician know.
*Your child will ask several questions about the world around them. Answer your child's questions with short explanations that are to the point, but helps their understanding.
*At this age your child may be very sensitive. Be mindful of the power of your words to prevent hurt feelings. Also encourage your child to be sensitive to the feelings and learn to apologize if they hurt someone's feelings.
*At this age, your child will start to learn the alphabet and may become interested in reading. One way to encourage interest in reading is rhyming words with your child. Also increase interest in reading by pointing out the letters in your child's name in signs you see. For example, if your child has an "S" in their name, point out the S in a stop sign.
*If your child is not in preschool yet, you may consider preschool for your child. If not, consider playgroups for your child to make friends and interact with their peers.
*If your child attends daycare, visit the daycare periodically to see how your child interacts. Make an effort to meet your child's teachers and keep track of your child's progress at school.
*Always let your child speak and express their feelings. Try not to interrupt your child when they want to speak with you.
Daily Life:
Feeding:
Sleeping:
Fun & Play:
*Continue to encourage active play in your child. This may include team sports. It is recommended that children get 60 minutes of exercise everyday.
*It is never too early to have your family get involved with the community. Teaching your child the importance of community service will help build responsibility in your child.
Safety:
*At this age, your child will begin to notice the difference between males and females. Your child may ask questions about boys and girls. It is best to use the correct names for body parts when explaining these differences to your child.
*Also is the best time to explain to your child stranger safety. While "not talking to strangers" is very important, studies have shown that most sexual abuse cases occur with a person that the child knows. To help protect your child, it is best to teach them the following three rules:
1. No adult should tell a child to keep a secret from parents.
2. No adults should show interest in private parts. It is best to explain this area to your child as the area that their bathing suit covers.
3. No adult should ask child for help with thier private parts.
Encourage your child that they should always come to you if they feel scared or nervous.
Health:
*At four years old, your child is old enough to start using toothpaste on their toothbrush. Your child should brush twice daily and floss once a day.
Parents & Family:
Useful Resources & Links:
TIPP (The Injury Prevention Program) safety sheet for 2-4 year olds
TIPP: Home Playground Equipment Safety
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Physical Activity information
American Academy of Pediatrics' Information on Booster Car Seats
Read Me A Story Check-up Guide