A child in the 3-5 years age group is considered to be a preschooler. While each child in this group is unique, recent research has shown that they do share some common characteristics that distinguish them from children in other age groups. For example:

Preschoolers are different from toddlers in that they are generally less negative, have a greater confidence in their abilities, and have a very active imagination. These characteristics in turn make them able to follow the rules of games.

In preschool years, the child's social and mental developments are just as important as his physical development. They are learning how to socialize with other children and they often learn how to be an adult through pretend play.

While social relationships are very important for the preschooler, his/her self-esteem is not well developed and can be easily threatened by his/her peers.

In general preschoolers do not have the ability to read. Rushing in trying to teach them to read might have negative aftereffects. So it is advisable to let them take the initiative in reading rather than urging them to do so. Any such initiative can be positively reinforced.

In general, the preschooler’s patience increases with his age. The maximum amount of time they he/she can wait for something is 1 minute per year of age.

Lastly a preschooler sucking his thumb is not a cause for alarm.