How to Teach a Four-Year-Old
In addition to being your four-year-old's biggest fan, you are also his perfect teacher. You likely spend more time with your child than any other person and have the greatest opportunity to teach and instruct him. Four-year-old children are typically very active and curious, and have the verbal skills to ask lots of questions. Take the time to answer your child's questions, no matter how simple or repetitive, and explain his surroundings to him.
Instructions
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Get on his level. Before you can teach your child, let him know that you value him. Kneel or sit down to look directly in his eyes while you speak with him. Don't overpower your child with eye contact, but make him feel noticed and heard.
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Read stories to your four-year-old. Choose storybooks that contain short, simple sentences and read slowly so your child can follow along. Select a variety of books your child might not normally like to introduce new cultures, different topics and school subjects. For example, pick out a book on ladybugs and read it with your child. After you finish reading, go on a hunt outdoors for ladybugs. Similarly, you could read a book about Spanish culture before you try a new Spanish recipe for dinner.
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Maintain a playful attitude about learning. Instead of forcing education on your child, help him see that learning can be fun. Sing songs to teach your child the alphabet or numbers. Play a board game, such as Candyland, to teach your child his colors. Visit the zoo to learn about animals. Remember that four-year-olds love adventures, so don't be afraid to get creative with learning activities.
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Point out new things to your child each day. Make learning a constant event. For example, when you take a walk, notice street signs with your child. Say each letter of the street's name with your child. Point out the grass and ask your child what color it is. Ask your four-year-old if she can find a blue item or something that is red.
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