Milestones Your Child at 3 Years

• What are some things you and your child do together?
• What are some things your child likes to do?
• Is there anything your child does or does not do that concerns you?
• Has your child lost any skills he/she once had?
• Does your child have any special healthcare needs or was he/she born prematurely?

You know your child best. Don’t wait. If your child is not meeting one or more milestones, has lost skills he or she once had, or you have other concerns, act early – it can make a big difference. Talk with your child’s doctor, share your concerns, and ask about developmental screening.

If you or the doctor are still concerned:

• Ask for a referral to a specialist who can evaluate your child more.
• Call any local public elementary school for a free evaluation to find out if your child can get services to help.
• For more on how to help your child click here and visit cdc.gov/Concerned.

As your child’s first teacher, you can help his or her learning and brain development. Try these simple tips and activities in a safe way. Talk with your child’s doctor and teachers if you have questions or for more ideas on how to help your child’s development.

• Encourage your child to solve her own problems with your support. Ask questions to help her understand the problem. Help her think of solutions, try one out, and try more if needed.
• Talk about your child’s emotions and give him words to help him explain how he’s feeling. Help your child manage stressful feelings by teaching him to take deep breaths, hug a favorite toy, or go to a quiet, safe place when he is upset.
• Set a few simple and clear rules that your child can follow, such as use gentle hands when playing. If he breaks a rule, show him what to do instead. Later, if your child follows the rule, recognize and congratulate him.
• Read with your child. Ask questions, such as “What is happening in the picture?” and/or “What do you think will happen next?” When she gives you an answer, ask for more details.
• Play counting games. Count body parts, stairs, and other things you use or see every day. Children this age are starting to learn about numbers and counting.
• Help your child develop his language skills by speaking to him in longer sentences than his, using real words. Repeat what he says, for example, “need nana,” and then show how to use more “grown-up” words by saying, “I want a banana.”
• Let your child help with making meals. Give him simple tasks, such as washing fruits and vegetables or stirring.
• Give your child instructions with 2 or 3 steps. For example, “Go to your room and get your shoes and coat.”
• Limit screen time (TV, tablets, phones, etc.) to no more than 1 hour per day of a children’s program with an adult present. Don’t put any screens in your child’s bedroom. Children learn by talking, playing, and interacting with others.
• Teach your child simple songs and rhymes, such as “Itsy Bitsy Spider” or “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.”
• Give your child an “activity box” with paper, crayons, and coloring books. Color and draw lines and shapes with your child.
• Encourage your child to play with other children. This helps him learn the value of friendship and how to get along with others.

To see more tips and activities, download CDC’s Milestone Tracker app.