What’s considered reasonable behavior from a 3-year-old at preschool?

Q:What should I expect from a 3-year-old in terms of preschool attendance, sitting in his/her own space, interruptions and squirminess? I’m a preschool teacher, and parents always ask me questions about these issues. I would like someone else’s perspective on the matter.

Dr. Kenneth N. Condrell, Ph.D.

Child Psychologist

A:It’s typical for 3-year-olds to squirm, interrupt and invade other children’s space. That’s why parents and teachers need a lot of patience to help children this age gain better self-control. While they can improve in the areas you mentioned, you shouldn’t expect them to fare as well as, say, a 5-year-old.

I think it’s a great idea for parents and teachers alike to surprise children with praise when they show self-control—sitting still during a story, for example, or not interrupting when mum’s on the phone. Children love to be praised, and to please parents and teachers. They’ll try harder to cooperate when their efforts are acknowledged.