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What physical and other developmental milestones should I look for in my preschooler?

By two years old, your preschooler should have mastered several physical milestones, including:

Walking in a heel toe motion, such as that of an adult.
Running quite well, although turning, stopping and evading obstacles may still be a problem sometimes.
Climbing on structures, playground equipment and out of his or her cot or crib.
Jumping in one place, with both feet together.
Kicking a ball that is fairly large.

Slightly more advanced two year olds may also be able to ride a low tricycle, balance on one foot for a few seconds, and go up and down stairs, although most find going up easier than going down!

At three, your child’s development should be more advanced, and he or she should have mastered the following skills:

Pedalling a bicycle or tricycle.
Running, including stopping and turning corners.
Jumping off a step that is fairly low.
Throwing a ball overhand, and catching one in both hands.
Going up and down stairs using one foot and then the other (your child may still use the railing for support for this.)
Your child can probably also get a swing to move by pumping his or her legs.

Hopping in place, jumping from slightly higher steps and other structures, and catching soft objects in his or her hands may also be something your child has mastered, if he or she is slightly more advanced.

Four year olds will be even more advanced than their younger counterparts. By this age, your child should be able to cope with the following:

Catch a ball thrown from as far as five feet away, and bend his or her arms in the process.
Climb higher equipment and surfaces.
Balance on one foot for at least five seconds, and hop on one foot.
Jump properly, and run quite fast, with no trouble changing direction or stopping.
Some more co-ordinated and developed children at this age may also be able to skip and jump over rope.

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