Emotional Development of Three and Four-Year-Olds

Growing Up and Expressing Feelings

Whether you see a preschooler laughing or crying, hugging or tugging a playmate, taking risks or seeking comfort from an adult, you know that they are developing their emotional skills and growing up in so many ways every day. And they need your help!

Emotional Development of Three- and Four-Year-Olds shares common milestones and typical scenarios to help you recognize various ways that preschoolers express their feelings and interact with others. You will also learn strategies for supporting and nurturing their growth, especially in situations involving the following types of emotional challenges and accomplishments: Expressing kindness and empathyExerting independenceManaging shynessBuilding confidenceTesting limits and taking risksExpressing anger and frustrationDealing with fears and anxietiesSharing a sense of humorHandling conflictsDealing with separation and lossAs you support preschoolers struggling to handle emotional challenges that occur during everyday interactions with adults and other children, you will help them learn the skills to navigate their emotional ups and downs in more positive ways.

Part of the Gryphon House Growing Up in Stages series