1. Count to 10
By the age of 3, a child should be able to count to at least 10, and possibly higher. They may also be able to recognize numbers and count objects.
2. Identify Colors
Children should be able to identify basic colors like red, blue, yellow, and green by the age of 3. They may also start to learn about secondary colors like orange and purple.
3. Recognize Shapes
By age 3, children should be able to recognize basic shapes like circles, squares, and triangles. They may also be able to name more complex shapes like diamonds and rectangles.
4. Understand Spatial Concepts
A 3-year-old should understand basic spatial concepts like up, down, in, out, and on. They may also be able to follow simple directions involving spatial concepts.
5. Know the Alphabet
While a 3-year-old may not be able to recite the entire alphabet, they should be able to recognize some letters and possibly even write a few.
6. Use Pronouns Correctly
By age 3, children should be able to use pronouns correctly in sentences, such as "I," "me," "you," and "we."
7. Speak in Complete Sentences
A 3-year-old should be able to speak in complete sentences, using 3-5 words. They may also start to use more complex sentences as they approach age 4.
8. Follow Simple Directions
Children at this age should be able to follow simple directions, such as "pick up your toys" or "Come here."
9. Identify Body Parts
By age 3, children should be able to identify basic body parts like eyes, nose, mouth, and ears. They may also start to learn about more complex body parts like arms and legs.
10. Understand Emotions
Children should be able to identify basic emotions like happy, sad, and angry by age 3. They may also start to understand more complex emotions like jealousy or disappointment.