Physical Development.
Through observation it is perceived that Dylan's gross motor skills are right on track. Dylan was observed to walk steadily through his classroom. Out on the playground, Dylan will run and play chase with other children. He will occasionally fall down as the playground surface is gravel, but that seems to be normal of all the children his age. He will climb on the play equipment and will take his time so as not to fall. He can catch and throw a large beach ball, but has not been observed with smaller balls. He also has not been observed on any riding toys or bikes, or on swings. Dylan will try to hop, but is unable to push off the ground with both feet. .
Dylan was observed using scissors for the first time at preschool. He first used both hands to hold onto the scissors and when shown the correct way, tried to use them with one hand, and then went back to using two hands (one on each handle). I gave him a pair of modified scissors that spring back open so he only has to do the closing motion to get them to work and he used them very well, cutting small lines on a paper for about 10 minutes. He has also painted and colored with crayons using his right hand. He just makes scribbles and has not yet demonstrated drawing any discernible shapes or figures. At snack time, he will pick up small pieces of food using a pincer grasp and eat them easily. He has also picked up small googly eyes and fruit loops for an art project and placed them on a dot of glue on paper. .
Cognitive Development.
Dylan will repeat count (say each number after the teacher), but will not yet count on his own. Dylan's attention seems to be most related to how engaged he is in an activity and how much he enjoys it, which is characteristic of most children and adults. During circle time, he will sing songs and engaged for about 5 minutes before he begins to become distracted by toys or other children's behaviors.
