A note that always strikes me is that they are doers. They are forever on the go. They are into everything. Kindergarten is not a place for teaching children by talking at them, not a place for grownups' lectures. It is a place where active children are involved in the goings-on.
Fives learn best that way.
James L. Hymes Jr. Is a Past President of the National Association for the Education of young Children and author of many publications for parents and children.