Four year old boys are an energetic bunch. It seems like they're always on the move! At this age, they're eager to try new things, and they have lots of energy. (More than we do!). Gifts that get them outdoors and active, like stomp rockets and sports equipment, will always go over well. (Their tired parents will thank you!)

At four, most children enjoy singing, rhyming, and making up words. And they love to be silly! Help nurture their bright little minds with toys that are engaging and creative, like craft sets, musical instruments, and building blocks.

A typical four year old knows about 1,500 words. This is enough to answer simple questions and express their feelings, and it prepares them for phonics in kindergarten. But learning to read can be hard work! Do what you can to keep him enthusiastic about books. Read aloud from stories he'll find interesting, including non-fiction and books with more adventurous vocabularies. (Just maybe not 'War & Peace'. Save that for his fifth birthday.)

Four is sometimes called the "magic year" - partly because it seems like magic that they're finally in preschool and listening to grown-ups, and partly because it's the age where their imaginations start to run wild! It's common for kids this age to develop imaginary friends. This is a sign of a healthy imagination, and it can be a lot of fun to watch. Help them make believe with 'play pretend' toys - just don't be surprised if you have to buy a second toy for their imaginary friend!