Is My Toddler Developing on Track? (3-5 years old)

A Quick Development Check-In for Ages 3–5

Every child develops at their own pace. Some children learn new skills quickly, while others need a little more time and support.

Between 3 and 5 years old, children are building important skills that help them play, learn, participate in school, and become more independent.

As parents, it’s normal to wonder:

"Is my child developing appropriately for their age?""

Are these challenges just part of growing up?""

Should I seek professional advice?"

At Thrive, we created a simple Development Check-In to help parents better understand their child's strengths and identify areas where they may need extra support.

What Skills Are Children Developing at Ages 3–5?

Fine Motor Skills

Skills needed for:

• Drawing and colouring

• Using scissors

• Playing with puzzles and toys

• Preparing for handwriting

  
  

Your child may be learning to:

✓ Hold pencils with better control

✓ Copy simple shapes

✓ Complete crafts and hands-on activities

Independence & Self-Care

Children are becoming more independent with:

✓ Dressing themselves

✓ Eating and using utensils

✓ Washing hands

✓ Managing daily routines

Sensory & Emotional Regulation

Children are learning how to:

✓ Handle different textures and environments

✓ Transition between activities

✓ Participate in routines

✓ Manage big feelings with support

Play & School Readiness

Play helps children develop important skills like:

✓ Taking turns

✓ Following instructions

✓ Pretend play

✓ Sitting and participating in activities

✓ Using classroom tools

When Should Parents Consider OT Support?

An Occupational Therapy consultation/screening may help if your child:

• Struggles with everyday activities

• Avoids certain play or sensory experiences

• Has difficulty with drawing, cutting, or classroom tasks

• Needs more assistance compared to other children their age

• Finds transitions and routines challenging

Seeking support early can help children build confidence and participate more successfully in daily life.

Take Thrive’s Free Development Check-In™ (Ages 3–5)

Not sure where your child is developmentally?

Our free parent checklist helps you explore your child's skills in:

✓ Fine motor development

✓ Self-care skills

✓ Sensory processing

✓ Play skills

✓ School readiness

It only takes a few minutes.

Take the Free Development Check-In™

Download our free Thrive Development Guide™ for 3-5 years old

At Thrive Play Space and Occupational Therapy Clinic, we believe every child has their own strengths, and our goal is to help children develop the skills they need to thrive.

Book an Occupational Therapy screening with our team today. Click here!

References:

American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). Occupational Therapy Practice Framework: Domain and Process (OTPF-4).

American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 2020.

Brown, T., & Lalor, A. (2017). The Pediatric Occupational Therapy Handbook.

Bundy, A. C., Lane, S. J., & Murray, E. A. (2020). Sensory Integration: Theory and Practice.

Case-Smith, J., & O’Brien, J. C. (2015). Occupational Therapy for Children and Adolescents

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Developmental Milestones. Developmental expectations for children ages 3–5 years.

World Health Organization (WHO). Guidelines on Physical Activity, Sedentary Behaviour and Sleep for Children Under 5 Years of Age (2019).