Early childhood behavior is a part of growth and development that will frequently change as the child reaches new milestones. For parents of preschool age children, it can be hard to keep up with these typical behaviors. Although each child develops differently, there are some common traits and characteristics that will usually be seen in each child.

When a child is two years old, there are a variety of early childhood behavioral actions that parents can expect to see. At this age, the child will generally know what he or she wants and demand it immediately. They will usually not give in until they get what they want, which is why this age has been called the terrible twos.  They have trouble making decisions and may resist change, or they may accept new things but at the same time want to keep things as they were. Two year old children like to give orders and want everything to be done to their specifications. Finally, children commonly begin to bite at age two.

At age three, early childhood behavior tends to be less demanding. These children usually enjoy routine and prefer to do things the same way all the time, such as eating a peanut butter and jelly sandwich for lunch every day. A three year old likes talking, word games and using their imagination to play. However, they sometimes want to revert back to being a baby and may become overly attached to their mother. Also, they may not share well and they tend to be clumsy. Falls, tripping and spilling drinks or food are very common at this age.

When a child turns four, there are additional early childhood behavioral actions that parents can expect to see. These children tend to be impatient and easily frustrated. They may hit or kick more often. At four years old, children are often loud and silly, but they can also be obnoxious. They may try to shock their parents or teachers by making up wild or outrageous stories. At age five, the child may tell lies to avoid getting into trouble or punishment. These children will sometimes take things that do not belong to them. A five year old child enjoys playing games but may be more competitive and cheat to win. At this age, a child likes to stay close to his or her mother and wants to be a part of everything.

Although some early childhood behavior may cause concern to parents, these traits are normal and children will almost always outgrow them. However, a time out usually works well for a child that has misbehaved. The length of this punishment should equal the child's age. Therefore, a three year old should sit in a time out for three minutes. This area should be a space with no toys, television or other stimulating activity that the child will enjoy. After the time out is over, parents should remind the children what they did wrong and explain that it is not an acceptable behavior.