During year 3, you may see your child develop a steady interest in other children. They are becoming more interested in socializing. They will be more in control of their emotions and feelings. Babyhood is over, and you will notice that you are dealing with a "junior" human being. They may be more aware of things, especially when it comes to social events. Their mental growth will amaze you!
Consider enrolling them in a preschool program. There are private and public programs available. A preschool program will allow them additional opportunities to socialize and to learn how to get along with other children outside the home. It will also help prepare them for school. Find out if your child is eligible for Head Start, a federally funded preschool program for low-income families.
Safety First!
Emphasize the proper use of scissors in making art projects. Remember: Children like to cut hair, drapes, clothes, etc. Supervise play with friends, but allow freedom for problem-solving, role-playing and make-believe activities.
Things Your Child May Do at This Age
- Stand and hop on one foot
- Walk up stairs using alternate feet
- Walk down stairs, putting both feet on one step
- Pedal large tricycles and kiddie cars
- Undo buttons (especially large buttons) easily
- Begin to cut with blunt-edged scissors
- Pour water from a pitcher into a cup with a little spill
Be sure to supervise your child when playing with water or using scissors.
Health Hints
Well-Baby Checkup: 36 months. Make your appointment now!
- Continue to help your child try new foods—especially fruits, vegetables and lean meats.
- Teach your child the habit of brushing teeth after each meal. They will follow your example. When brushing, use a spot of toothpaste no larger than the size of a dime on the toothbrush. Let them learn to brush top, bottom, inside, outside and all around their mouth.
Things You Can Do Every Day to Help Your Child Grow
- Allow your child to spend more time with other children their own age. Also allow them to visit with family and friends in their homes on their own.
- Give them building blocks to play with. Build forts, towers, and family, farm or town scenes.
- Provide creative opportunities with art materials such as large crayons, paper, blunt-edged scissors, play dough, finger paint, watercolors and paintbrushes.
- Allow them to dress up and pretend to be a doctor, nurse, actor, truck driver and other occupations. Playing make-believe is normal and very important for brain development.
- Give them time to solve problems on their own. Wait until they ask for your assistance before you help.
- Allow them to watch limited educational or children's programs on TV. Continue to read to them daily.
- Encourage them to tell you stories to develop original thinking and increase their vocabulary.
- Have books for your child in your home. There are many children's books that have songs, rhymes or finger plays to go with the story. The librarian at your local library can help you find these books. Going to the library should be a usual event.
- Singing action rhymes, songs and finger play will encourage their language development. Songs such as "Itsy Bitsy Spider" and "Five Little Monkeys" have rhyming words and finger play that goes with the song.
Action Rhyme
This is my right hand, I'll raise it high
This is my left hand, I'll touch the sky
Right hand, left hand (extend them)
Right hand, left hand
Pound, pound, pound!