- What is a typical 3 year old like?
- What is a typical 3 1/2 year old like?
- How can I help my 3 year old survive?
- What does my child need for preschool?
- Is crying normal on the first day? (and days after?)
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What is a typical 3 year old like?
*are calmer and more cooperative than at 2 1/2 yrs old.
*say yes more than no.
*smile more than frown.
*laugh more than cry.
*follow instead of resist.
*want to please others and do things right.
*like to be praised after completing a task.
*have better control of their bodies than at age 2.
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What is a typical 3 1/2 year old like?
*are anxious and strong willed.
*like to defy requests of parents (similar to terrible 2 stage)
*seem emotionally insecure (may stutter, stumble, tremble)
*release tensions in a variety of ways (suck thumb, bite nails, pick nose,
chew on clothes).
*display inconsistent behaviors and moods (shy then bold, bossy)
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How can I help my 3 year old survive?
*don't expect your child to always be nice or daily routines to go smoothly.
*avoid criticizing your child (for thumb sucking, etc..)
*understand that it's normal for your child to stumble, tremble, twitch, and
stutter at this age.
*avoid correcting speech, just repeat an incorrect word or sentence in the
correct form.
*it may not be a problem if your child still wets the bed, most children do
not develop the ability to stay dry until 5 or 6 years old.
*don't be surprised if your child cooperates with others and not with you,
most at this age do better with someone else than the parents!
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What does my child need for preschool?
*a backpack to hold papers and artwork to take home. Larger backpacks works
best to hold the papers.
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Is crying normal on the first day? (and days after?)
Watching your child go to school is very difficult, but when the child sees
that you are upset they react to that. If a child is crying, it is best if
you give them a firm hug and kiss and tell them you'll see them soon. Most
of the time the child settles down and starts to investigate their new
environment. If your child has a hard time we will call you and see if you
are able to be with him/her on the first day. You are welcome to call us to
check on your child.
