Wow, time flies! That little bundle of joy you brought home not long ago is turning three! It may be hard to believe (is there a wrinkle in the space-time continuum?), but your toddler is making incredible progress. If you haven’t yet considered preschool for your little one, now is the time to start thinking about it.
As you relish every moment with your 34- to 36-month-old, you’ll notice their personality blossoming and their curiosity expanding. They’re filled with questions about everything! So, be ready to provide all those answers. And while you may have questions of your own, let’s explore some of the milestones you can expect during this exciting phase.
Growth and Development Milestones
What should a 34-36 month old weigh?
Your toddler is transitioning from that cute, chubby baby phase to looking more like a little kid. As they grow taller, they may slim down a bit. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, the average weight for girls in this age range is about 30.1 to 30.7 pounds, while boys typically weigh between 31.1 and 31.8 pounds.
How much and what should they be eating?
Your child’s diet remains steady. They should be enjoying three meals and two snacks daily, featuring a variety of foods from all groups: vegetables, fruits, grains, proteins, and dairy. Remember, their portions should be about ¼ to ½ of an adult’s serving size. It’s now time to switch to 1 percent or skim milk for that essential calcium intake of 700 mg daily. If your toddler is lactose intolerant or you’re following a dairy-free lifestyle, consult a pediatrician for alternatives.
Sleep patterns at this age:
Sleep can be a tricky subject at this stage, as toddlers are in an in-between phase. The National Sleep Foundation recommends that most 2-year-olds need about 11 to 12 hours of sleep at night, along with 1.5 to 3 hours of naptime, totaling 13 to 14 hours. However, by age three, they typically need only 10 to 13 hours of sleep combined. This means less sleep for you too! Although many children will still sleep through the night for 8 to 9 hours, sleep regressions can happen. If your little one needs something, like a bathroom break or a sip of water, keep it simple, help them out, and guide them back to bed.
Physical, Social, and Cognitive Milestones
Physical activity your toddler should engage in:
At this age, your toddler is likely quite active! Expect them to be able to walk confidently, run, jump, pedal a tricycle, climb, and even dance.
Language development:
The language skills of your little one are rapidly expanding! By this age, they may know over 450 words and are starting to form three- to four-word sentences, making communication with them increasingly enjoyable.
Behavioral challenges:
Let’s be real; your toddler may not always be a joy to be around. They might exhibit “me, mine, my” behavior, a normal part of development. You may also notice them becoming attached to screens; however, it’s best to limit their screen time.
Potty training readiness:
Potty training can vary significantly among children. By age three, many are fully potty trained, while others may not be ready until closer to four. Just encourage them and provide the right tools when they show signs of readiness; don’t rush it, as they’ll let you know when they are ready.
Health and Checkups
Should your toddler have a checkup?
Absolutely! At this age, their pediatrician will track their weight, height, BMI, and may check blood pressure and vision. It’s wise to jot down any questions you have in advance to ensure you don’t forget anything.
Immunizations for your toddler:
While vaccines are not typically required for three-year-olds, it’s a good idea to consider their annual flu shot if you haven’t done so already.
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In summary, your toddler is at an exciting age filled with growth and development. Embrace the questions, enjoy the milestones, and remember to keep an eye on their health and well-being.
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