Preschoolers should take responsibility for their possessions. They should hang up their own coats when they get to class, and tidy their space after snack or play times. Preschoolers also should begin to share some of the daily chores, such as cleaning craft tables or straightening chairs. Most 3- and 4-year-old children will be eager to do these tasks, though they need you to be patient with them as they learn to get the job done right.
Children between the ages of 3 and 4 are learning to assert their own will, but they also want to interact with peers and teachers. Preschoolers should be able to follow simple instructions given by an adult. They also should be able to engage in respectful parallel play, which means working on their own projects without infringing on their peers' space.
Appropriate behavior for preschoolers dictates that they be good sports in play and empathetic in relationships. Children 3 and 4 years old will struggle to follow game rules when they want to win, but they will conform to this behavioral expectation if you reinforce its importance on a regular basis. They should also listen to their peers, instead of interrupting, when it is their turn to talk.
Tantrums and dramatic mood swings are par for the course when it comes to preschoolers. It is still important to set clear expectations for appropriate verbal and non-verbal communication. A child who frowns or pouts when told no should be instructed to "make your face friendly again." A child who screams and yells when she doesn't get her way should be taken aside when she is calm and taught to use her words instead of throwing a tantrum.