3 Years
Using the Bathroom is an Important Skill
Your child will be proud when he or she uses the toilet and may want to share the good news. Encourage your child by letting him or her know you're proud. More...
Make Time for Active Play
Experts recommend that children this age spend at least one hour every day running, jumping, and climbing in a safe area. This kind of activity helps your child's body become strong and well-coordinated. More...
Set Limits on "Screen Time"
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children over age two have no more than one to two hours of screen time per day. More...
Children Need Plenty of Sleep
At age three, children need 10 to 12 hours of sleep at night and may need a nap or quiet time after lunch. Help your child get to bed at the same time each night. More...
Your Three-Year-Old's Emotions
There may be a lot of changes in your child's life right now—a new child care or preschool, potty training, maybe even getting a new bed. This can be stressful and may lead to tantrums. More...
3½ Years
Children Learn and Develop at Their Own Rate
By now, people outside your family should be able to understand what your child says at least half the time. More...
Talk with Your Child
Talking together is one of the best activities for you and your child. "Why" is probably one of your child's favorite word. He or she thinks you know everything! More...
Stay Involved with Preschool and Child Care
If your child is going to preschool, stay involved to help make sure he or she has a good experience. More...
Pretend Play is Part of Learning
When your child plays "make-believe" he or she learns many things, such as how to care about other people when pretending to be someone else. More...
4 years
Help Your Child Get Ready for Kindergarten
You may be thinking about what you can do to get your child ready for kindergarten. Many of the things you do every day are helping your child get ready. More...
Help Your Child Express Feelings
Your four-year-old may have very strong feelings. This is normal, but it may worry or surprise you. More...
Children are Curious About Their Bodies
If your child asks questions about his or her body, give simple, honest answers. Try not to embarrass your child. Teach the correct names of body parts. More...
4½ Years
Have fun with learning
You are your child's first and best teacher. You can help him or her learn while doing everyday things. More...
Practice problem-solving
When your child is angry or upset about something, he or she needs you to help find a solution. Talk to your child and help him or her explain to you why he or she is feeling bad. More...
Think about kindergarten early
Each school district has its own rules. It is important to talk to your child's school a year before he or she starts school. More...
Children and nightmares
Many children have nightmares. Here are some things you can do to help your child. More...