Assess the four-year-old's development before determining which activities will serve him best. Though there are wide differences in appropriate physical development for a four-year-old, most do show similarities. According to the University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension, a four-year-old's physical development includes the following: climbing jungle gyms, hopping on one foot, catching a ball that is thrown from 5 feet, balancing on one foot for more than 5 seconds, walking heel to toe, skipping clumsily and walking downstairs while alternating feet.
Plan learning experiences. When you asses the child, you will know the areas in which learning experiences will most benefit his physical development. Even if his development is normal, he can improve his skills by playing in a structured manner. Help him work on his motor and listening skills by playing a circle game. Place a circle made out of tape on the floor. Use painter's, masking or duct tape. Ask the child to follow you as you move around the circle. When you move, move in different ways so that the child can mimic you. For instance, walk heel to toe, skip or hop on one foot. After the child understands the game, allow him to lead the circle as well while you follow.
Help children catch a ball by providing them with beanbags. Create boxes that have different letters, numbers and words on them. Stand by the boxes and pass the ball to the child. Call out a letter, number or word and ask him to throw the beanbag into the appropriate box. You can vary the game and have the child move farther away from the boxes if he is able to get most of his throws in the boxes.
Allow free play in addition to structured activities. Because four-year-olds can play with playground structures, give them time to play together on an in or outdoor structure. While they are playing together, encourage them to resolve their conflicts together. They could also participate in timed races through the structure. This will each them about numbers and how a clock works.