08/19/2026
✨ THE JOURNEY OF EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT — I AM 3 ✨
Today we continue the journey at age 3.
At 3, children are becoming more independent, more verbal and increasingly aware of the people and world around them.
They may have more words for their feelings now — but that doesn’t mean they can always use those words when emotions become big.
So we may see:
Strong reactions to frustration.
Difficulty with waiting or sharing.
Upset when plans change.
Big feelings around transitions.
A growing need to do things independently.
At this age, children are also beginning to notice other people’s feelings more, but empathy, impulse control and emotional regulation are still developing.
In I AM 3, we look at what you might notice, what’s happening developmentally and how adults can support children as they begin to understand both their own emotions and those of the people around them.
And throughout this series, remember: age gives us a useful lens, not a rigid deadline. Children develop at different rates, and temperament, experiences and environment can all shape the journey.
👉 Follow The Contented Child so you don’t miss the journey from 1–21.
And tag someone who might find this series useful.
