Three years old is genuinely one of my favourite ages. I know, I know, everyone warns you about the threenager. And yes, it can be a lot. But three is also when kids become these fully formed little people with opinions and humour and ideas and the ability to have actual conversations with you. It is extraordinary. Physically, 3-year-olds are much more coordinated than they were at 2. Most can run smoothly, jump with both feet, climb playground equipment, kick a ball with aim, pedal a tricycle, and walk up and down stairs one foot per step. Fine motor skills at 3 include drawing a circle, cutting with child scissors, turning pages one at a time, and beginning to copy simple shapes. Language at 3 is usually well-developed. Most 3-year-olds use 200 or more words, speak in sentences of 4 to 6 words, and can be understood by strangers most of the time. They ask endless questions, particularly why, which can be exhausting and also charming. Socially, 3-year-olds are starting to engage in true cooperative play with other children rather than just parallel play. They show empathy, take turns (with support), and are beginning to understand other people have feelings too. Emotionally, 3-year-olds still have big feelings and limited regulation skills. Tantrums continue. That is normal. Talk to your pediatrician if your 3-year-old cannot be understood by strangers, is not playing with other children, cannot follow two-step instructions, or has lost skills they previously had.