3 year olds are developing rapidly and express a great interest in the world around them. They want to touch, taste, smell, hear, and test things for themselves. They are eager to learn. They learn by experiencing and by doing.

The main way they learn is through play. They are busy developing skills, using language, and struggling to gain inner control. Tantrums become less as they begin to understand more and are more able to express their needs.

They want to establish themselves as separate from their parents. They are becoming more independent. They can express their needs because their language is more advanced.

At this age they can begin to develop fears. Common fears include new places and experiences and separation from parents and other important people. A 3 year old child will test you over and over again; they may use bad language and act very silly. They may still have trouble getting along with other children, and sharing may still be difficult. Because of their developing imaginations, they may have trouble telling fantasy from reality. They may also talk about imaginary friends. 3 year olds need clear and simple rules so that they know the boundaries of acceptable behaviour.

• They walk on tip toes.

 
• They stand on one foot.

• They ride a tricycle.

• They build towers of 6-9 blocks.

• They catch a ball.

• They smear or daub paint. They draw or paint in vertical, horizontal, and circular motions.

• They can handle small objects (such as puzzles, pegboards, and parquetry sets).

• They enjoy dramatic play with other children.

• They begin to learn to share.

• They need to know clear and consistent rules and what the consequences for breaking them are.

• Their emotions are usually extreme and short-lived. They need to be encouraged to express their feelings with words.

• seeks attention and approval of adults

• sometimes shows preference for one parent (often the parent of the opposite sex)

• accepts suggestions and follows simple directions

• enjoys helping with simple household tasks

• can make simple choices between two things

• enjoys making others laugh and being silly

• spends a great deal of time watching and observing

• enjoys playing with other children briefly, but still does not

• cooperate or share well

• enjoys hearing stories about self

• enjoys playing "house" enjoys imitating other children and adults

• answers whether he is a boy or a girl

If you have a younger child too please take a look at our Sibling rivalry page