3 years old

SOCIAL EMOTIONAL

• calm down after ten minutes after parents leave them for instance, in a childcare drop off;

• notice other children and join them to play;

• worry when another child is crying;

• like routine;

• do not like big changes;

• show affection;

• need simple and clear rules;

• need directions: if they break a rule, tell them what to do instead. If they follow the rules, recognize and congratulate them;

• like to play outside;

• need help to be ready for new places and people;

•  Adults can read stories or role play (pretend play) about new places, things and people to help them feel more comfortable.

LANGUAGE AND COMMUNICATION

• say first name when asked;

• ask "who, what, where or why", e.g.: Where is mommy?;

• say what action is happening in a picture "running, eating, etc.";

• talk well enough for other to understand (most of the times);

• follow simple instructions;

• name known objects;

• try to learn how to manage feelings;

• show affection;

• might be able to have a short conversation;

• start to learn how to take turns when speaking;

• like parents to read for and with them;

• like to talk about the pictures in a story;

• need role models to improve speaking;

COGNITIVO

• develop learning, thinking, problem-solving;

• draw a circle when somebody shows them how;

• avoid touching dangerous objects when somebody warns them, like a hot stove;

• play with puzzles. Puzzles with big pieces and few pieces;

• understand the concept of number 2;

• play make-believe with animals, dolls and people;

• like positive words related to good attitude;

• need to be encouraged to solve their own problems with the adult support;

• needs help to choose words to explain feelings and emotions;

• need help to manage stressful feelings through strategies like: take a deep breath, go to a quiet place, etc;

• like to talk about numbers and counting;

• follow instructions with 2 or 3 steps;

• like songs and rhyme;

• like matching games;

• can say their names and age if taught.

MOVEMENT

• string items together, like large beads;

• put some clothes by themselves, like loose pants or a jacket;

• use a fork;

• jump with both feet;

• run more firmly;

• use regular crayons;

• start to use jumbo pencils;

• start to use big brushes;

• like to use paint;

• manipulate a book turning a page at a time;

• stack up 6 blocks;

• go up and down the stairs placing a foot in each step;

• can be assigned simple tasks, like washing fruits and vegetables;

• like to play with playdough - it helps them to build hand and finger muscles for future writing.