What to expect of a three year old (1060)

Three-year-olds think they are quite grown-up. They are certainly becoming more skillful at eating and using utensils. When they are really hungry, parents may find they forget about using a fork or spoon and go back to eating with their fingers.

They may be fussy about simple things that would not matter to an older child. For example: they may insist that their sandwiches be cut into triangles. They may be upset if their milk is served in a cup that is smaller than everyone else’s.

Preschoolers are busy learning table manners at this age. They learn by watching adults and older children. Try to point out the good things they do rather than nagging about their mistakes.

Parents usually find that the three-year-old is more willing to try new foods. Cooking is a great activity at this age, and children are always more willing to try a new food if they have helped to prepare it.

If vegetables are a problem, try them raw, perhaps with a nutritious dip. Give each child his own bowl of dip. Try making up riddles about the different foods to make the tasting fun.

Help your three-year-old help herself. Let her set the table. Provide child-sized utensils, cups, and plates. Encourage children to help themselves and take only as much food as they can eat. Children are more likely to try new foods when they can decide how much to serve themselves.

For more information on this subject, Please visit the College of Agricultural Sciences Publications Web site.

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