Three Year Old: Unpredicatble

Please keep in mind as you read the following lists of developmentally appropriate behaviors, that no two children are alike.  Some children might exhibit all the age-related characteristics, some might exhibit most, and there are some children who might not exhibit more than one or two. 

When using the list below, it is important to also consider your child’s adjusted age if applicable, environmental, and situational factors, the child’s temperament, and if the child is in a period of equilibrium or disequilibrium. ​

A 3 year-year old child usually but not always:

• loves to conform
• uses the word “Yes” easily
• likes to share, likes the idea of “We”
• no longer needs the protection of rituals
• feels more secure in his relations with others and with himself
• enjoys cooperating
• likes to make friends
• has increased motor abilities
• has a marked increase and interest in vocabulary and language
• is easily influenced to behave when exciting new words are used, such as “secret,” “surprise,” “different,” “guess”
• willingly goes forward toward new adventures
• is in a high period of equilibrium; pleased with himself and with others

Much of the following information is based on the studies by The Gesell Institute of Human Development, with the primary source being Your One Year Old, by Louise Bates Ames, Ph.D. Also included is information from Pick Up Your Socks by Elizabeth Crary. This information Can be found at the centerforparentingeducation.org