Ages & Stages of Development

The milestones listed below are typical for young children.  Please remember that every child is unique - growing and developing in different ways.  Most of the time, differences between children of the same age are nothing to worry about. But for one child in 10, the difference can be related to a developmental delay.

If you have any questions or concerns about your child's growth or development, call (815) 886-7827.  We can provide you with information or a screening.

At age 3  most children can...

  • Walk up stairs while holding the railing
  • Stand momentarily on one foot
  • Open doors
  • Unbutton large buttons
  • Verbalize toilet needs
  • Stack objects of different sizes

At age 4  most children can...

  • Hop in place
  • Throw balls from above their head
  • Tell that they are a boy or a girl
  • Say their last name and age
  • Point to six basic questions when asked
  • Ride a tricycle
  • Wash their hands by themselves
  • Copy a circle
  • Begin to play with other children
  • Respond verbally to "Hi" and "How are you?"

The material above is part of Look What I Can Do, a public awareness compaign of the Illinois Department of Human Services and the Illinois State Board of Education.