Can answer simple questions (“What does the dog say?”)
Uses negative phrases (“No want that.”)
Fine Motor Skills
Holds pencil between thumb and forefinger, can draw lines, copy a circle and cross
Starting to flip a switch off and on
Turns pages in a book one page at a time
Gross Motor Skills
Likes rough and tumble play
Likes to climb but may need help getting down
Balances on one foot for 1-5 seconds
Personal Social Skills
Likes to be with other children
May not understand others have feelings
Mood can change in a second, may throw a tantrum or get upset when they do not get what they want
Problem Solving Skills
Groups objects by category
May recite numbers but may not count objects yet
Can pay attention to only one thing at a time
Noticing what comes “first, next, last” when routines are followed
Child may not like changes in schedule, can be confusing to them
Activities
Communication Activities
Use descriptive language (wet, heavy, dirty, bumpy, etc.)
Have your child follow longer directions (“Get your shoes and bring them to me.”)
Ask your child simple questions (“Where are your shoes?”) and help him answer
Expand your child’s sentences by adding one more bit of information (Example: “Mommy go bye”; “Mommy’s going to work; Bye bye”)
Fine Motor Activities
Draw large shapes on paper, color in the shapes together
Using a large paint brush and bowl of water, have fun “painting” the house, fence or garage door
Gross Motor Activities
Place a piece of wide tape on the floor to practice “walking a tightrope”
Play “follow the leader”, crawl, tiptoe, bunny hop, walk backwards, under tables, around chairs, over pillows, walk slow or fast with big and little steps
Personal Social and Problem Solving Activities
Show child how to group things in one, twos, threes
Give child empty egg cartons to use for “pockets” to sort coins, buttons, different color objects
Encourage dressing without help, let your child choose own clothes
Give your child a washcloth and dishpan of water to wash a “dirty” doll and toy dishes
Count everything! Count as your child brushes teeth, sets the table, climbs steps
