3 – 5 years
General Behavior
- Active and curious explorer
- Gains independence (likes to feed and dress self but may need assistance)
- Unable to distinguish between reality and fantasy (enjoys make-believe, dressing up and imaginary playmates)
- Develops some fears (dark, storms, animals); child needs comfort and reassurance, and should not be ridiculed
- Concept of time is limited; difficulty understanding “wait for five minutes”
- “Terrible 4s” if passed over negative behavior at age 2
- Likes to play with “friends;” does not like to lose, though
- Acts more independent but is still dependent on parents
- Enjoys learning new skills
- Frustrated easily; may not know how to handle frustrations/disappointments
- Learning that there are consequences for misbehavior
Positive Parenting Practices
- Provide opportunity to be around other children; interaction is important
- Set firm limits; praise good behavior
- Allow child to express feelings both positive and negative
- Allow choices when possible in dressing and food choices
- Provide quiet time prior to sleep
- Provide simple clothing that child can handle
- Encourage them to explore their environment; look for teaching moments
- Read to your child; have them guess what will happen next in the story; talk about characters and why they act the way they do; help them identify emotions
- Limit TV time; too much TV limits direct interactions
- Establish daily routines; kids do better when they can predict their environment; have a set bedtime and regular mealtimes
