Week 6

ZERO to THREE website
This week I chose to follow the link for the 30-36 month developmental sheet.  I chose this because Owen and Ella turned 3 on December 2nd.  The developmental sheet discussed the social aspect of a typical 30-36 month old child. 

Between 30 and 36 months, toddlers really enjoy playing with friends—doing things like acting out stories, building together with blocks, or exploring the playground.  It also discussed the fact that brothers and sisters are often a child’s first friends.  Sibling relationships provide daily practice with sharing and cooperating. They also offer children opportunities to show compassion and loving support.

Social Skills-THE PARENT'S ROLE:

Make time for play.  Encourage children to play with others.  Organize playdates with friends.  Give child verbal and non-verbal feedback.  Encourage the child to use problem-solving strategies.  Help the child learn about other's feelings. 

The section also discussed typical behaviors or common skills at this developmental age. 

While I believe it is important to understand the typical development of this age range, I know as a mother and a special education teacher that all children develop differently and at their own pace. 

PHOTOS:  Owen and his cake!; Mommy, Owen, and Ella celebrating!; Ella and her cake!; and Noah at the Wizard of Oz play...he got a chance to be the scarecrow!