There are a number of milestones that most three-year-old children will have achieved. However, if your child hasn’t reached all of these markers by his fourth birthday, don’t panic. Some children are “late bloomers” and may just need a bit of extra time to catch up. There are development warning signs, though, that you can look out for and bring to your child’s doctor’s attention if you notice them.
Mental development
- Can tell the difference between one and many; he may be able to count up to 10 things
- Can identify some colors
- Attention span increases by a few more minutes
- Has a vague idea about time; has some understanding of terms like “yesterday”, “not now”, “later”, “wait for a while”
- Does not put everything in her mouth; can distinguish between food and toys
- Follows simple commands like “don’t go there”, “wait for me”
- Starts with some kind of pretend play (a sheet of paper can become his airplane)
- Can match similar shaped objects (circles, squares, etc.)
- Identifies objects with functions; can pour juice from pitcher to cup
- Can flip through a book by himself and can also match any object with its picture
- Is cautious with some dangerous things like a burning stove or moving car
Social and Emotional Development
- Knows “I” and differentiates it from “he”, “she” “you” or “them”; understands what is “mine” and what is “his”
- Knows if she is a boy or a girl
- Understands her first and last name
- Can play in groups of three
- Imitates people around her, helps with simple tasks
- Is almost toilet-trained
- Is increasingly fond of familiar playmates
- Can express her emotions openly by crying, screaming, laughing
- Expresses her affection for a caregiver
- Is not very anxious about separation; is willing to let mommy and daddy leave for some time