EARLY CHILDHOOD: 3 Year Visit

Getting Ready for this Visit

Write down your questions. Share your child's new accomplishments and fully participate in this visit as a partner in your child's health.

Children with special needs: Discuss how things are going for you and your child—concerns or support services. If he was in Early Intervention, he may be moving to school-based services. Make plans to change from your IFSP to an Individualized Education Program (IEP). Mention treatments or visits to specialists.

At this age, your child may:

• Eat and dress with little help
• Play elaborate pretend games
• Carry on conversations with 2-3 sentences spoken together
• Speak clearly so others understand
• Know how to use crayons, balls, spoons
• Ride a tricycle
• Walk up stairs alternating feet
• Be toilet-trained during the day

What's Important for this Visit

YOUR questions and concerns are the #1 priority! Your health care provider may also discuss:

• Family support: Handling strong emotions; learning to calm anger; building sibling relationships

• Reading and learning new worlds: Encouraging your child to tell you stories

• Playing with peers: Learning to take turns; enjoying pretend play with friends

• Promoting physical activity: Enjoying physical activity as a family; limiting TV, video, and DVD screen time

• Safety: Ensuring car safety; protecting from falls and other accidents, including those with guns or other firearms

The 3 Year Visit: What To Expect

Your health care provider will check your child from head to toe; measure height, weight, Body Mass Index (BMI), and blood pressure; talk with her; ask questions to see how she is developing, and ask about changes in your family. Carry out screening tests: vision, others as needed.

• Immunizations: See chart for any needed at this age.