Development
4-7 Yrs: Not A Baby Anymore!
Starting school isn't the only sign he's growing up. Your child is
physically stronger, slimmer and faster - definitely not a baby any more!
You
may notice your child's own developmental rate varies - a rapid growth
spurt may be followed by a long period of minimal growth. As long as your
doctor is happy with your child's overall progress, relax and accept that
he is probably growing in exactly the right way for him.
Growing
up fast?
Over the next few years, you will begin
to notice wide variations in development among your child's friends. Some
children are early developers, both physically and mentally. Many begin
to reflect their future potential physique and a few even begin to display
early puberty. Small wonder that children in a typical primary school
class can have height differences of up to 12.5 cm (5 in).
An
'athletic' physique
At this age, your child's body fat is redistributed and his legs grow
longer, resulting in a much slimmer look. He is also gaining muscle mass
and enjoys testing his strength through physical activity, running faster,
jumping and throwing further.
He
can stand on one leg for longer periods now and can walk on a narrow beam.
Depending on his gymnastic ability, he may be able to stand on his head
and perform a handstand. He can also learn to ride a 2-wheeler bike.
Clever
fingers
Your child learns to tie his shoelaces and can fasten small buttons. He
learns to use a knife and fork at the table and can manipulate small tools
like scissors. He can sew, using an increasingly smaller needle. He also
learns to work with small parts in model or building sets.
Get ready for the tooth fairy!
As his baby teeth drop out, your child's
face begins to look thinner. His hair may darken, particularly if he started
life blonde. Some children also exchange curls for straight hair - and
even vice versa.
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