Preschoolers

The life of preschool children is an exciting time for everyone around them. Having progressed through the stages of being an infant and toddler, preschoolers have developed the skills to interact with and explore the world like never before. Having developed the ability to use thousands of words, their bigger vocabulary lets them communicate with adults and peers in actively solving problems, demonstrating their growing knowledge, and interacting with others in socially appropriate ways. They are able to use their physical skills to do things such as dress themselves, use scissors to cut, write their name with a pencil, and ride tricycles and bikes.

Preschool children, with the support of trusting adults, learn to take initiative in experimenting with their environment and trying new things through play. When this happens, preschoolers continue to develop math skills (counting, sorting, measuring, etc.) and science skills (asking questions, making predictions, observing changes, etc.). They show their abilities to think creatively and use their imaginations when they draw a picture of their trip to the park or dress up like a dentist. Preschoolers are very active and hands-on whether at home or another setting.

Parents, caregivers, and teachers play an important role in the development of preschool children. The best approach to meeting children's individual needs and supporting their learning process is giving preschoolers plenty of opportunities to explore and play on their own while also taking the time to listen, talk and play directly with them.

Other major elements in caring for and supporting preschoolers include (but are not limited to):

  • Understanding areas of preschool development—social/emotional, language, cognitive, and physical
  • Ensuring the health and safety of preschool children
  • Providing stimulating, nurturing environments
  • Understanding the importance of developmentally appropriate curriculum for preschool children
  • Understanding how culture, family, and individual differences influence children's development
  • Understanding the importance of supporting preschoolers with disabilities or special needs
  • For caregivers/teachers—understanding the importance of building relationships with families
  • Understanding the critical role of research and theory in establishing a foundation for working with preschool children

For more information about the development of preschool children, go to: