DEVELOPMENTAL MILESTONES*
Physical Characteristics
Gains 2-2.5 pounds/year and grows 3-5 inches/year
Stands more erect but abdomen is still protruding and back is swayed
Motor Development
Walks independently and is able to maneuver around objects
Runs with more confidence with fewer falls
Squats down while playing
Able to balance on one foot, but may fall
Throws ball underhanded without losing balance
Unbuttons large buttons and unzips large zippers
Grasps large crayon in fist to scribble on paper
Cognitive Development
Begins to pretend by using objects for purposes besides what they are intended for
Can separate toys into different bins
Names objects in picture book
Speech and Language Development
Uses 50 to 300 different words
Utters three and four word statements
Speech is 65-70% intelligible
Personal-Social Development
Shows signs of caring and empathy
Expresses frustrations through temper tantrums
Finds it difficult to wait or take turns
DEVELOPMENTAL ALERTS
Check with your child's pediatrician if by Three Years your child does NOT:
Eat a fairly well-rounded diet, even though amounts are limited
Walk confidently with few stumbles or falls; climb steps with help
Avoid bumping into objects
Carry out simple, two-step directions; express desires; ask questions
Point to and name familiar objects; use two or three word sentences
Enjoy being read to
Show interest in playing with other children
Indicate a beginning interest in toilet training
Sort familiar objects according to singe characteristic, such as color
Did you answer yes to one or more of the developmental alerts?
- First and foremost, please contact your child's pediatrician. Your health care provider is your best resource if you have any questions or concerns.
- Secondly, would you like to speak with someone at Special Kids to learn more about how our services may benefit your child? Contact our Family Resources team to learn more.
*Developmental milestone survey adapted from Lynn Marotz and K. Eileen Allen's book Developmental Profiles: Pre-birth through Adolescence.