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3 year old developmental milestones

3 year old behavioral, developmental and health milestones

Developmental milestonesMay 18, 2025Dahlia Rimmon, MS, RDN2 min read

3 Things You’ve Likely Seen This Month

  1. Chatting nonstop! 🗣️ Your 3-year-old may now speak in 3–4 word sentences, ask lots of questions, and tell simple stories.
  2. Independent spirit! 💪 They’re mastering self-help skills like dressing themselves, brushing teeth(with a little help), and tidying up toys.
  3. Imagination overload! ☁️ Pretend play is in full swing as they act out scenes with toys, dress up, or play make-believe games.

What’s Coming Up in Year 4?

  1. Refining Social Skills: Expect them to build stronger friendships, take turns, and share more during playtime.
  2. Improved Motor Skills: Activities like hopping, pedaling a tricycle, and using child-safe scissors will become part of their skill set.
  3. Increased Curiosity: Their favorite question might become “Why?” as they explore the world and seek to understand everything.

Proactive Tip: Encourage social development by arranging playdates, and introduce activities like puzzles, crafts, and outdoor games to keep them engaged.

Health Spotlight – The 3-Year Well-Child Visit

The 3-Year Well-Child Visit:

This important checkup will include:

  • Growth measurements (height, weight, and BMI).
  • Developmental milestone checks, including language, motor skills, and social behavior.
  • Screening for vision and hearing.
  • Discussion about sleep routines, behavior, and preschool readiness.

Vaccines at 3 Years:

No routine vaccines are typically required at this visit unless your pediatrician recommends a flu shot or other catch-up vaccines.

Proactive Tip: Bring any questions about sleep, picky eating, or managing tantrums to the appointment.

Need advice before the visit? Text a Summer Health pediatrician anytime for support.

*include dosage chart

Parenting a 3-year-old is an exciting adventure filled with milestones, challenges, and joy. Summer Health is here to support you every step of the way.

  • Curious about milestones? Get expert tips tailored to your toddler’s growth and development.
  • Preschool readiness questions? Learn how to prepare your child for this next big transition.
  • Behavior challenges? We’ll help you navigate tantrums and set clear boundaries with confidence.

Ask a Pediatrician Now about any questions you have about your toddler!

Three years ago, your child changed your world in the most amazing way. They’re growing into a confident, curious, and capable little person—and you’ve been their biggest champion every step of the way. Here’s to Year 4 and all the adventures it will bring! 💛

Article

Published
May 18, 2025
Author
Dahlia Rimmon, MS, RDN
Read time
2 min

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