A child has many milestones when growing up. As they reach three they achieve many new levels of development that open up a whole new world to them which can be very exciting and a treasure to watch.
During the 3rd year, your child:
- is eager and energetic
- wants very much to do things “right”
- likes to do chores and help you
- has increased attention span
- can put away his toys
- eats on his own
- learns toilet training and can stay dry all day
- has much improved skills with his hands
- can pour liquid from a pitcher
- can copy circles, squares and a cross on paper
- stacks 9-10 blocks
- completes simple puzzles
- can wiggle his thumb
- can imitate you folding a paper into quarters
- draws a person with three parts
- can cut a piece of paper in half
- cuts along a line within 1/2 an inch
- can trace a diamond shape or copy the letter H
- has much improved vocabulary and can express most of his thoughts, needs and wants
- may begin to talk non-stop
- starts to ask “when” and “why” questions
- knows nearly 1,000 words but doesn’t always use them right
- often has trouble with correct pronouns (help him with his words: don’t make fun of him)
- has more physical strength and better coordination, can take care of his simple needs
- follows directions
- is learning to share and take turns
- takes pride in doing things for others
- may act in a certain way to please caregivers
- has boundless energy and wants to be active all day
- loves to run, jump, climb and dance
- begins to swing arms like an adult when he walks
- loves to jump off bottom stairs, off the couch, off the bed, off the slide
- balances on one foot for a few seconds
- sets new challenges for himself, like how far can he walk, how fast can he run, how far can he jump
- discovers the limits of his strength and balance
- often emerges from shyness and becomes more social
- makes friends easily
- seeks friends on his own
- starts to be choosy about who he plays with
- uses language to make friends or hurt others
- likes to be important around his peers
- is learning compassion and might attempt to comfort a playmate
- is becoming more cooperative, happy and agreeable
- feels less frustrated because his skills are improving
- may still seek comfort from caregivers when tired or hungry
- learns more socially acceptable ways of displaying feelings
- may have more words to express feelings
- may show more fears, like fear of the dark, fear of animals, fear of stories, fear of monsters
Give your child
- a daily routine
- lots of patience, love and affection
- a safe home to explore and play in
- freedom to let him test his strength and his growing skills
- reassuring words to foster his independence
- increased time to play and read together
- engage in conversation: really listen, talk and answer your three year old
* All tips apply to both boys & girls
