As you watch your little one transition from infancy to toddlerhood, it’s astonishing to realize that your tiny bundle of joy is now approaching three years old. It may feel like just yesterday that you brought them home, but your toddler is rapidly developing in physical, social, and cognitive ways. If you haven’t already begun considering preschool for your child, now is a great time to start thinking about it.
During these exciting months, it’s vital to cherish every moment with your 34- to 36-month-old. Their curious nature is in full swing, and they are eager to explore the world around them, which means you’ll be answering countless questions. Here’s what you can expect in terms of milestones for your toddler.
Growth and Developmental Milestones: What to Expect
Weight and Height: How Much Should Your Toddler Weigh?
At this stage, your child is beginning to resemble a little kid rather than a baby. Typically, girls in the 34 to 36-month range weigh between 30.1 and 30.7 pounds, while boys usually weigh between 31.1 and 31.8 pounds, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control.
Diet: What Should Your Toddler Be Eating?
Your toddler should still be having three meals and two snacks daily, with a balanced assortment of foods from all food groups including fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins, and dairy. Remember that their portions are much smaller—about ¼ to ½ of an adult serving. They should also be drinking 1% or skim milk to meet the daily calcium requirement of 700 mg. If you’re following a dairy-free lifestyle, consider consulting your pediatrician for suitable alternatives.
Sleep: How Much Sleep Does Your Toddler Need?
Sleep can be a bit unpredictable at this age. The National Sleep Foundation suggests that while most two-year-olds need about 11-12 hours of nighttime sleep and 1.5 to 3 hours of naptime, three-year-olds generally require only 10 to 13 hours in total. This can mean less sleep for both you and your toddler, but they will likely still sleep through the night for 8 to 9 hours. Do keep in mind that sleep regressions can occur, so it’s important to manage these situations calmly and simply.
Physical, Social, and Cognitive Milestones: What to Look For
Physical Activity: What Should Your Toddler Be Doing?
Most toddlers around this age showcase a wide range of physical abilities. They can walk confidently, navigate stairs, jump, pedal a tricycle, dance, and run without falling over.
Language Development: How Much Should Your Toddler Be Talking?
Your toddler’s vocabulary is expanding rapidly, likely exceeding 450 words. They may also be using three to four-word sentences, making communication more engaging and easier for you both.
Behavior: What Behavioral Issues Might Arise?
It’s normal for your toddler to exhibit some challenging behavior during this time, including possessiveness and occasional tantrums. This is often referred to as “me, mine, my” syndrome and is a typical phase of development. It’s important to set limits on screen time during this period as well.
Potty Training: Is It Time?
Potty training varies widely among children. Many are fully potty trained by 36 months, while others may take longer. Encourage your child gently and provide the necessary tools, but avoid rushing the process.
Health Considerations for Your Toddler
Checkups: Should You Schedule a Doctor’s Visit?
Regular checkups are crucial. During these visits, the pediatrician will monitor your child’s growth, including weight, height, and BMI, as well as check their blood pressure and vision. Jotting down any questions ahead of time can help ensure you cover everything during the appointment.
Immunizations: What Shots Are Needed?
While immunizations are typically not required at this age, consider scheduling your child’s annual flu shot if you haven’t done so already.
In summary, these months are filled with exciting growth and development. Your toddler is exploring their world and learning new skills every day. Make sure to enjoy this incredible journey together. For more insights on related topics, check out our other posts, including resources from Make a Mom and NHS.