Your rapidly growing preschooler

Using his new abilities
Your preschooler no longer needs to focus on how to stand or walk or run. Now his movements are more agile and natural. Physical games are new ways for him to develop his coordination and strength, to release his high energy, and to have fun with other kids.

He's ready now for more challenging activities, with your supervision. Now you can't pass a playground or a park jungle gym without giving him the thrill of practising his gymnastic skills. He may want to ride a tricycle although he may start by using his feet to push himself. He will eventually learn to pedal and then progress to a small bicycle with training wheels.

Learning about sports
Your child may enjoy kicking a soccer ball, and this will prepare her for team sports later. You can also practise throwing and catching together, although at first there will be a lot more misses than catches. For learning how to throw and catch, a small bean bag may be easier than a ball because it's easier to grip.

Your child will become more interested in having physical adventures. Going for a hike in the woods or along a river fits the bill. As your preschooler scrambles over logs, runs on rough terrain, and keeps his eyes peeled for garter snakes, he's working on his balance and coordination and building his observational skills.

At about age four, you can introduce your preschooler to favourite family sports like skiing, skating, or swimming through classes and your own instruction. If your child is keen, get her involved in some of the sports that you personally enjoy. She will pick up on your pleasure and learn by imitating you. As she grows older, you'll be able to enjoy doing these things together as a family, and someday she may beat you down the hill or across the pool.

The first set of wheels

At age three:
Your child is ready for his first tricycle. Look for one that is low enough that he can straddle it with both feet flat on the ground, that has a wide seat, and that's stable when turning corners. To help little feet get a grip, stick bathtub decals on the foot pedals.

At age five:
A child this age can learn to ride a bicycle, although she should only ride in a park or yard away from the street and the traffic. Take your child with you when you choose a bike so that you get the right fit. She should be able to sit on the seat, with balls of both feet on the ground and hands on the handlebars.

Snap on the helmet
As soon as your child has wheels, he needs a helmet. It should meet standards set by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) or the American National Standards Institute (ANSI); check the label. Ensure that the helmet fits snugly, but comfortably.