Milestones for 3-Year-Olds

Overview

Children usually progress in a natural, predictable sequence from one developmental milestone to the next. But each child grows and gains skills at their own pace. Some children may be advanced in one area, such as language and communication. But they may be behind in another area, such as movement and physical development.

Milestones usually are grouped into five major categories: physical growth, cognitive development, emotional and social development, language and communication development, and movement and physical development.

Physical growth

Most children by age 3:

• Have gained about 4.4 lb (2 kg) and grown about 3 in. (8 cm) by their third birthday.
• Look more like a child than a baby. The belly is less rounded and the head and legs look more in proportion with the body.
• Have a complete set of baby teeth.

Go to www.cdc.gov/growthcharts to see the high and low percentiles for normal weight and growth.

Cognitive development (learning, thinking, problem-solving)

Most children by age 3:

• Draw a circle when you show them how.
• Avoid touching hot objects, like a stove, when you warn them.

Emotional and social development

Most children by age 3:

• Calm down within 10 minutes when you leave them, for example at preschool or day care drop-off.
• Notice other children and join them to play.

Language and communication development

Most children by age 3:

• Talk with you in conversation using at least two back-and-forth exchanges.
• Ask "who," "what," "where," and "why" questions, like "Where is mommy?"
• Say what action is happening in a book or picture when asked.
• Say their first name when asked.
• Talk well enough for other people to understand most of the time.

Movement and physical development

Most children by age 3:

• String items, like large beads, together.
• Put some clothes on by themselves.
• Use a fork to eat.