Important Milestones at 3 Years

Three years old! There are some important things to keep track of as your child grows and develops. Keep in mind that any questions or concerns you have should be discussed with your child’s doctor. Here’s what most 3-year-olds can do at this age:

SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL MILESTONES

  • Around ten minutes after you leave them, like at daycare drop off, they calm down

  • Notices other children and even plays along with them

LANGUAGE/COMMUNICATION MILESTONES

  • Has conversations with you that include at least two back-and-forth exchanges

  • Asks “who” “what” “where” questions

  • Says first name when asked

  • Talks well enough to be understood most of the time

COGNITIVE MILESTONES (LEARNING, THINKING, PROBLEM-SOLVING)

  • After showing them how, they can draw a circle

  • Avoids touching objects that are hot to the touch after being warned, like a stove

MOVEMENT/PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT MILESTONES

  • Strings items together, like large beads or macaroni

  • Puts on some clothes without help, like an open coat or loose pants

  • Uses a fork

Remember, you know your child best. Talk with your child’s doctor about any of your concerns and ask about developmental screening.

Looking for tips and activities to do with your child to assist in their learning and development? Visit the CDC’s milestones pages here.

United Way of Central New YorkToddlers, Preschoolers