If you don’t know the answer, say “I don’t know,” or help your child find the answer in a book, on the Internet, or from another adult.

Take time to answer your child’s “why” questions.

Join him in pretend play, such as eating the pretend food he cooks.

Give your child toys or things that encourage his imagination, such as dress-up clothes, pots and pans to pretend cook, or blocks to build with.

Children this age need 10 to 13 hours of sleep a day (including naps).

Avoid any screen time (TV, phone, tablet, etc.) for 1 to 2 hours before bed and don’t put any screens in your child’s bedroom. Let her see you enjoying healthy foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and drinking milk or water.

Eat meals with your child when possible.

Playing with others helps you child learn the value of sharing and friendship. Ask about local play groups and pre-school programs.

Let your child play with other children, such as at a park or library.

Do you want to go outside and play or put on some music and dance?” Give her a choice of what she can do instead.

Tell your child in a simple way why she can’t do something you don’t want her to do (“unwanted behavior”).

For example, say “You’re sharing that toy so nicely!” Give less attention to those you don’t want to see.

Use positive words and give attention to behaviors you want to see (“wanted behaviors”).

For example, when he sees a child who is sad, say “He looks sad.

Help your child learn about others’ feelings, and about positive ways to react.

For example, help your child say, “Can I have a turn?” instead of taking something from someone.

Encourage your child to use “his words” to ask for things and solve problems but show him how.

My 4.5 yr old doesnt get tic tac toe