So your baby turns 3 and all of a sudden you are a hit with yet another stage in growing up and are not quite sure how to handle it. You are low key freaking out but at the same time trying to just go with the flow of parenthood. Incase no one told you a three-year-old, is still in a stage of development where they are learning how to control their emotions and behaviour. So it is perfectly normal for them to be all over the place at times. Here are some common behaviours that you may observe in a three-year-old and some tips to handle them:
1. Tantrums: Three-year-olds may have tantrums when they don’t get what they want or when they are feeling overwhelmed. It’s important to stay calm and try to distract them with a toy or activity they enjoy.
2. Saying “no” to everything: It is common for three-year-olds to refuse everything and say “no”. You can try to offer choices instead of closed-ended questions to give them some control over decision making.
3. Emotional outbursts: Three-year-olds have big emotions and can be easily upset. Give them words to express what they are feeling, for example, “It looks like you’re feeling angry.” Encourage them to take deep breaths to calm down.
4. Testing boundaries: Children this age are still learning what is acceptable behaviour. Set clear boundaries about what is and isn’t allowed and consistently enforce them.
5. Separation anxiety: Some three-year-olds may struggle with separation anxiety when it comes to leaving their caregiver or starting preschool. Be patient, prepare them beforehand, and reassure them that you will be back.
My son is probably experiencing all of these at once, so Mommy’s patience has to be at its best right now. Just knowing that this is a part of growing up really does give me that little push I need to get through this stage. Always remember, every child is different and develops at their own pace. If you have any concerns about your child’s behaviour, talk to your pediatrician or a trusted professional for further advice and guidance.
