3 years, 2 months old
Balancing New Challenges
Play ideas, a book, a song and a little encouragement for your 38 month old, from Maddie.
By Maddie, early childhood educator and Mum
5 min read · Updated
In this guide
Hey there, wonderful parent!
If you are reading this, you are in the busy world of a 3 year old! Where big ideas come out of little bodies, and strong independence seems to come and go. One minute they’re asking for help, the next they’re insisting, “I do it!”
Your days might be filled with half-built towers, costumes that don’t quite match, and projects that were never meant to be finished… and that’s exactly where its supposed to be.
At this stage, it’s less about getting things done and more about letting them explore, try, wobble, and try again. They’re not just playing, they’re figuring out who they are and what they’re capable of..
And right now, it’s all about finding balance… in their bodies, their emotions, and their growing sense of self.
This newsletter is here to gently remind you that amidst everything; you’re still doing enough. Those everyday explorations, whether indoors or out, are the foundation of their growth and learning. Here are a few gentle ideas to add, only if you’d like a little something extra:
Activity 1:🎨 Big Painting (No Outcome)
How: Tape a large sheet of paper to a table, wall or fence and bring out the paints. Offer big brushes, rollers, or just hands, and let them dive in. Watch as they swirl, mix, cover, and layer, completely absorbed in the moment.
Big paper invites big movement, giving children the space to use their whole arms, explore freely, and create without feeling restricted; and if you don’t have large sheets, simply cut open a cardboard box or use grocery paper bags for an easy alternative.
Why: This is where creativity really comes to life. There’s no plan, no “right way,” just exploring colour, movement and feeling. As they paint, they’re building confidence, expressing themselves, and learning to trust their own ideas.
Sometimes the thought of painting can feel a bit daunting… all that mess! But like all activities, you don’t need much to make it meaningful. Start simple, two colours, two brushes, two pots (or even squirt the paint onto a piece of cardboard, or something from your recycling bin, so that you can just throw out later). Also take it outside if you can, so you don’t have to manage it so closely.
And if you’re feeling brave, let them paint nudie; no dirty clothes to worry about! Because let’s be honest… the paint rarely stays just on the paper. If they’re anything like my girls, their bodies quickly become part of the masterpiece too 🎨💛
It’s not about what they make… but how it feels while they’re making it 💛
Activity 2: Hopscotch
How: Draw a hopscotch grid outside, but let go of the “rules.” Your child might hop, step, jump with two feet, or even make up their own path. Follow their lead and join in their version of the game.
Why: At this age, movement is learning. Hopscotch builds balance, coordination and body awareness, while also giving them a safe space to test their limits. It’s not about getting it right, it’s about moving, trying, and discovering what their body can do.
Song of the month:🎵 Nursery Rhyme: Row, Row, Row Your Boat 🎵
Row, row, row your boat,
Gently down the stream,
Merrily, merrily, merrily, merrily,
Life is but a dream.
Make it fun:
Sit facing your child and row back and forth together
Speed it up, slow it down, or get super silly
Try different versions: whisper it, sing it loudly, or add actions like rocking or spinning
It’s simple, rhythmic, and perfect for connection, which even in all this big kid energy, it is exactly what 3-year-olds love most 💛
Book of the Month: The Very Cranky Bear – Nick Bland
This playful Aussie favourite is always a hit. With its rhythm, repetition, and lovable characters, children are quickly drawn into the story.
Beyond the laughs, it gently opens up conversations about emotions, friendship, and understanding others; all things 3-year-olds are just beginning to navigate. Don’t be surprised if your little one starts joining in or retelling parts of the story in their own way. Remember, these popular books can easily be picked up at your local library, which have a range of great resources, from books to group times. Your big 3 year old will borrowing their own books with their very own library card!
Did You Know?
At this age, what children do matters far more than what they make.
When children are given the freedom to explore paint, scissors, glue, and different materials without a set outcome, they’re engaging in what’s called process art. It might look messy or unfinished to us, but to them, it’s full of experimenting, problem-solving, and creative thinking.
And it’s not just about creativity, this kind of open-ended play also supports social and emotional development. As they make their own choices, try new ideas, and work through little frustrations, they’re building confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of “I can.”
It really is the ultimate example of “there’s a method to the madness!”
Social & Emotional Skill Building
Offer opportunities for your child to take the lead in their play and creations.
Instead of focusing on what something should look like, stay curious about their process:
“Tell me about what you’re making”
"How do we play this game?"
When children feel their ideas are valued, they begin to trust themselves. These small, everyday moments help build independence, confidence, and a willingness to keep trying, even when things don’t go to plan 💛
Parenting a 3-year-old is a lot like process art… a little messy, unpredictable, and you’re never quite sure what the end result will be!🎨
Your doing beautifully!