I recently did a post about 10 things to do before you are 10, so it only seemed right that I do the same kind of post for the toddler. Turning 4 is a big milestone, it is the age that most children start school so what things should a preschooler have done before they start school? I don't mean things like being able to write their own name, counting to 10 or knowing their ABC's because things like the alphabet are retaught as phonics (letter sounds) in reception classes, but I do mean the  life experiences that you can get away with when you are little!

1. Painting with your hands and feet (if you can stand the mess)

This actually makes me shudder. I still can't believe this happened in my kitchen but the toddler LOVED it! We got a huge piece of paper roll and pretty much covered the entire kitchen floor and she ran across it, smudged paint with her fingers and generally had a whale of a time. Paint is a great sensory experience.  The cool, squishy, smooth feeling of the paint on their hands, feet, or on their skin is something toddlers really enjoy doing.  

 2. Start to ride independently (with or without stablisers of course)

Having a big sister means that the toddler has always been keen to follow in her footsteps, she has had a Strider Bike to help with her balance, she has had fun on a scooter but has recently gone on (and on and on) about having a bike. There is no right or wrong age for a child to learn to ride a bike and really there’s an easy way to learn how to cycle, and it involves no special tricks, and no teaching whatsoever. Not from anxious adults anyway. Children teach themselves. In fact, the younger they are, the more fearless they are and ultimately children learn best by trial and error rather than formal instruction.

3. Roll down a big hill (unless you are allergic to grass pollen of course)

I made the mistake of showing the toddler how much fun rolling down a hill was. The next ten minutes of my head spinning was not so much fun. She however did it over and over again.  (disclaimer - unfortunately this also means that walking past any hills in future *may* result in the insistence of rolling down it)

4. Be a Princess (or a super hero) for the day

Have you had "that" debate with your toddler? You know the one where they want to wear their Princess dress up outfit to go to the supermarket, or the park or even Nanny's birthday party at a posh restaurant. Do it and if you are feeling really brave, why don't you wear a princess crown too .... it might just make your toddlers day!

Would you add anything to this list?

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