Three is usually a time of endless curiosity, high imagination and
huge learning. Get ready to talk as a typical 3 year old’s vocabulary
expands to over 1,000 words, and begins to include sentences that are
not becoming very audible.
Here are some other practical ideas:
1. Get ready for imaginary friends
You may find that your child asks you to set a seat aside at
mealtime for an imaginary friend. Kids with imaginary friends are more
likely to grow up to be creative, cooperative, sociable, independent,
and happy.
2. Look for their lack social filters….but it’s amusing!
Your three year olds’ greater exposure to others and lack of social
filters inevitably means one thing – embarrassment for parents. Don’t
be surprised to hear you child shout out in a supermarket, “Why’s that
lady got blue hair?”
3. Screen the screens
Your three-year-old will, in all likelihood, become very interested
in screens including the television, computer and mobile devices. They
all have a place, but need to be used in moderation and shouldn’t
replace active play.
4. Let them learn through play
This age group often work out complicated emotions through their
play with dolls, blocks and playthings. After a visit to the doctor your
child might line up all her teddy bears for shots. Your child is
assimilating the new experience, and play is a safe way to do so. It
might help them handle any fears or apprehension so they feel more in
control of the situation.
5. Model social scripts…..and manners
While your three year old is becoming more social take the effort
to develop their manners. Model social scripts for your child. As this
is a very social age, spend the time teaching and reinforcing good
manners when he goes visiting friends and relatives.
6. There’s a monster under the bed
Vivid imaginations and greater propensity for independence where
they spend time away from you can lead to an increase in fears. Help
your child cope and offer a practical solution such as a night-light or a
special back rub to calm them.
7. Win the bedtime battles
Bedtime is a common battleground between parents and many three
year olds. Be matter-of-fact and reassuring, stick to a routine and help
your three year old fall asleep alone.
8. Help them bond to their family
Involve your three year old in family traditions and rituals. ‘Can you help me prepare the table for dinner.’
9. Help them handle their frustrations
The struggle for independence continues for three year olds as
their physical and verbal skills often don’t match their determination
to ‘do it myself’.
10. Start good habits now
This is an age of forming habits that stick. To make life easier
down the track consider adding the following habits to your child’s
repertoire – helping you every day, packing toys away, bed-time routine,
staying in bed until a set time each morning.
11.Stay with me
It’s common for three year olds to resist being left by parents,
when only a few months ago they were happy to be left with a trusted
friend or relative. Let them know they will be safe and reassure them
that you’ll be back. Usually they settle very soon after you’ve made a
quick exit.
