PARENTING SKILLS: Children's Mental Development
From 3 to 4 Years Old: * Can name and sort objects. * Begins to understand the idea of cause and effect. "If I do this, then X will happen." * Shows an interest in science and nature. * Begins to fantasize and make up stories. * Has a better memory. * Shows improved attention span (usually up to 20 minutes). From 5 to 6 Years Old: * May create "invisible playmates". * Is able to take directions more easily. * Becomes curious about pregnancy, childbirth, sex, death. * Begins to learn the basics of printing and simple math. From 4 to 5 Years Old: * Learns how to organize things (clothes, toys, etc.). * Is very observant. * Loves "make-believe" play. * Begins to think mathematically. 1997