1. Gross and Fine Motor Skills
Kids in this age group should be able to do things like using a fork and knife properly, drawing simple shapes, and building towers out of blocks. If your child is struggling with any of these skills, it may be worth mentioning to their doctor.
2. Language Development
Most 5-year-olds can speak in full sentences, understand complex instructions, and recite the alphabet. If your child is having difficulty with any of these things, it may be a sign of a language delay.
3. Sensory Processing
Kids at this age should be able to appropriately react to sensory stimuli (such as being able to feel the difference between hot and cold or being able to hear quiet sounds). If your child is over- or under-sensitive to certain sensations, it may be worth mentioning it to their doctor.
4. Self-Regulation
By 5 years old, most kids should be able to control their emotions and behaviors fairly well. If your child has difficulty regulating their emotions or behavior, they may need help from a professional.
5. Social/Emotional Skills
Most 5-year-olds should have developed good social skills by this age - they should be able to take turns in games, share materials with other kids, and recognize when someone is upset. If your child has difficulty with any of these things, they may need some help from a therapist.
6. Executive Functioning Skills
Executive functioning skills include things like being able to plan ahead, stay organized, and focus on a task for an extended period of time. Most 5-year-olds have mastered these skills, but if your child is struggling with any of them, it may be worth mentioning to their doctor.
7. Cognitive Skills
Cognitive skills include things like problem-solving, memory recall, and math skills. Most 5-year-olds are proficient in these areas, but if your child is struggling with any cognitive tasks, it may be worth bringing up with their doctor.
8. Academics (If Applicable)
If your child is starting kindergarten this year, there will likely be an emphasis on academics - such as learning how to read and write. If your child is struggling in this area, you may want to consult with their teacher or doctor for help.
9. Daily Living Skills (If Applicable)
Some 5-year-olds are ready to start learning basic daily living skills, such as how to tie their shoes and brush their teeth. If your child is having difficulty with any of these tasks, you may want to consult with their doctor or therapist for help.
10. Any Other Areas of Concern
If you have any concerns about your child’s development that are not mentioned here, be sure to bring them up with their doctor. Developmental delays can be helped with early intervention, so it’s important to get any concerns checked out as soon as possible.