It’s hard to believe, but that little baby you brought home is now approaching their third birthday. Time flies, doesn’t it? As your toddler grows, it’s essential to cherish every moment with them. At this age, their curiosity is insatiable, and they are eager to explore the world, asking questions about everything they encounter. As you navigate this exciting phase, here’s a look at the key developmental milestones you can expect from your 34- to 36-month-old.
Physical Growth and Development
Your toddler is likely starting to resemble less of the squishy baby they once were, transitioning into a more active child. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, girls aged 34-36 months typically weigh between 30.1 and 30.7 pounds, while boys in the same range weigh around 31.1 to 31.8 pounds.
As for nutrition, your child should continue to enjoy a balanced diet featuring three meals and two snacks daily. Meals should include a variety of foods from all food groups, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins, and dairy. Remember, serving sizes should be about a quarter to half of what an adult would eat. By now, your toddler should be drinking 1% or skim milk to help meet their calcium needs, which are about 700 mg per day. If lactose intolerance is a concern, consult with their pediatrician for suitable alternatives.
Sleep Patterns
Sleep can be a tricky topic as your little one transitions between stages. The National Sleep Foundation advises that most 2-year-olds require around 11 to 12 hours of sleep at night, along with an additional 1.5 to 3 hours of naptime, totaling 13 to 14 hours a day. However, by age three, most toddlers need only 10 to 13 hours of sleep combined. This change may result in less sleep for both you and your toddler, though they will likely still sleep through the night for about 8 to 9 hours. Be aware that sleep regressions can happen at this age, so keep nighttime interactions brief and straightforward.
Physical Activity and Language Skills
Most children at this age are capable of walking in various directions, climbing stairs, jumping, pedaling a tricycle, and even dancing. They are also starting to master balancing while running and stopping without falling.
On the language front, your toddler’s vocabulary is expanding rapidly. They may know over 450 words and will begin forming three- to four-word sentences. Communication will become increasingly easier as you engage with your little one.
Behavioral Development
It’s essential to acknowledge that your toddler may exhibit challenging behaviors at this stage. They often grapple with possessiveness, leading to the infamous “mine!” syndrome. While this can be frustrating, it’s a standard part of their development. Limiting screen time is also crucial, as toddlers can quickly become attached to electronics if allowed.
Potty Training Readiness
Potty training varies greatly among children. By 36 months, many toddlers are fully trained, but some may not be ready until closer to four years old. Continue to encourage your child and provide the necessary resources. Patience is key; every child develops at their own pace.
Health Checkups and Immunizations
Regular checkups remain vital. During these visits, your child’s doctor will monitor their height, weight, and BMI, along with checking their blood pressure and vision. It’s also beneficial to prepare any questions before your appointment to ensure all concerns are addressed. While most vaccines aren’t required for three-year-olds, consider getting the annual Influenza shot if you haven’t done so already.
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In summary, your toddler is on an exciting journey of growth and exploration at this age. From physical and cognitive milestones to social behaviors, understanding these aspects will enhance your experience as a parent.