3 years milestones
at 3 years, most children are becoming more independent and social. they can carry on a conversation, play imaginatively, and are learning to take turns — though sharing is still a work in progress.
milestones at 3 years
physical
3 milestones- •climbs well and runs easily
- •pedals a tricycle
- •walks up and down stairs with one foot per step
cognitive
3 milestones- •does puzzles with 3–4 pieces
- •understands the concept of 'two' and counts to 3
- •turns pages in a book one at a time
social & emotional
3 milestones- •takes turns in games
- •shows concern for a crying friend
- •dresses and undresses with some help
language
3 milestones- •speaks in sentences of 3–5 words
- •strangers can understand most of their speech
- •asks 'why' and 'what' questions
when to talk to your GP
every child develops at their own pace, but speak to your GP or child health nurse if your child at 3 years:
- •falls down a lot or has trouble with stairs
- •drools or has very unclear speech
- •can't work simple puzzles
- •doesn't use sentences
- •doesn't understand simple instructions
- •doesn't engage in pretend play
what parents can do
- •encourage creative play with drawing, playdough, and dress-ups
- •read longer stories and ask questions about what happened
- •practise counting during everyday activities (counting steps, fruit)
- •arrange playdates to practise social skills like sharing and turn-taking
next health check
in Australia, child health checks are free and available through your GP or child health nurse. these are a great opportunity to discuss any developmental concerns.
view all baby milestones
the complete month-by-month guide from birth to 5
this guide is for general developmental information only and is not medical advice. milestones are based on guidelines from the Raising Children Network, Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, and PEDS. every child develops differently — if you have any concerns about your child's development, please see your GP or child health nurse. mini mode is not affiliated with any government department or health service.