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Normal Development: 3 Years Old

Physical Development

jumps, gallops, tiptoes, runs smoothly
can walk backwards a long distance
may stumble and fall frequently
rides a tricycle
pours from a pitcher or milk carton using both hands
undresses self, but needs help with dressing
uses crayons with somewhat more control
most primary teeth have erupted

Emotional Development

becoming more relaxed and flexible
still cries and hits at times
quickly alternates between shyness and exuberance
may show fear of unfamiliar objects or activities
may want to be a baby at times
begins to talk about dreams

Social Development

is keenly interested in family activities
idolizes parents
seeks approval from adults
tests limits constantly
often prefers to play alone
may have an imaginary playmate
shares and takes turns occasionally
quarrels with other children

Mental Development

develops more stable concept of self
speaks about 1,000 words
begins to use pronouns in speech
grasps some grammatical principles
delights in hearing stories over and over again
loves learning short rhymes and songs
may match or identify primary colors
enjoys imaginative and imitative play
can assume some very simple responsibilities
puts toys away with adult help
has attention span of no more than a few minutes
can choose between alternatives

Each child is unique. It is therefore difficult to describe exactly what should be expected at each stage of a child's development. While certain attitudes, behaviors, and physical milestones tend to occur at certain ages, a wide spectrum of growth and behavior for each age is normal. These guidelines are offered as a way of showing a general progression through the developmental stages rather than as fixed requirements for normal development at specific ages. It is perfectly natural for a child to attain some milestones earlier and other milestones later than the general trend.

If you have any concerns related to your child's own pattern of development, check with your pediatrician or family physician.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIA File CHL3748F.HTM Release 9.0/2006