3 years, 5 months old
Embracing Little Leaders
Play ideas, a book, a song and a little encouragement for your 41 month old, from Maddie.
By Maddie, early childhood educator and Mum
3 min read · Updated
In this guide
Hello there, wonderful parent!
As we step into month 41, you may be noticing how your little one’s personality is becoming even more vibrant. Their confidence is blooming and their curiosity is endless... and they really know what they want.
Between the giggles and the occasional tired sigh, it’s beautiful to see how much they’re growing and learning every single day; I am always continuously amazed and the ideas, conversations and knew learning which comes out of my girls; at every age and stage they are simply mind boggling! Even when the days feel long, remember that you’re providing the warmth and stability they need, just by being you. And its moment of feeling safe, and loved is when they thrive!
This newsletter is all about engaging with simple, playful ideas that nurture their budding independence. What you’re already doing together is more than enough; these are just little extras for when the mood strikes.
Activity 1: Playdough
How: Roll out some playdough and let your little one dive in! Squash it, roll it, poke it, stretch it… there’s no right way to play.
You can make it extra fun by adding:
🍃 Natural materials like sticks, leaves, or flowers
🍴 Kitchen tools like a masher, spoon, or (child-safe) knife
✂️ Kids scissors for snipping and cutting
🧁 Muffin trays or containers for “cooking” and pretend play
The options are endless with playdough, and if your making it from scratch, get them involved for extra fun, learning and mess!
Why: All that squeezing, rolling, and cutting is building finger strength and coordination, important skills for drawing and writing later on.
But for now? It’s just simple, sensory fun… and that’s more than enough ✨
Activity 2: Follow the Leader
How: Take turns being the leader in a simple walk or movement game around the house or garden. Call out silly steps or quirky moves to mimic. I always like to use this one when there is tired legs and we need to get somewhere, it may even be from the car into the house.
Why: This playful activity practices listening, self-control, and decision-making. Plus, taking turns being 'in charge' gives a little boost to their self-esteem.
Nursery Rhyme of the month: Jack and Jill
Jack and Jill went up the hill
To fetch a pail of water.
Jack fell down and broke his crown,
And Jill came tumbling after.
Up Jack got, and home did trot,
As fast as he could caper;
And went to bed to mend his head
With vinegar and brown paper.
Jack and Jill is a classic tale of ups and downs... quite literally! It’s a fun way to remind them that we all take little tumbles, and it’s okay!
Book of the Month: Press Here
This interactive book invites your child to press, rub, and shake the pages. It’s almost like magic how each gesture leads to the next.
The joy really comes from seeing their eyes light up with each new page. Remember, any book shared is valuable. It's not about reading perfectly; it’s about sharing a quiet moment together. There are so many books at your local library, and if you haven't found yours yet, they are also no longer "ssshhh" places. They welcome children to come and read and laugh and play. Your 3 year old will feel very grown up having their own library card and scanning them out themselves!
Did You Know?
Building those tiny finger muscles through activities like playdough helps pave the way for easier writing and drawing later on. It’s amazing how all those little pinch-and-roll motions add up to such important skills.
Social & Emotional Skill Building
Take turns being the leader in your daily activities. It might be deciding what song to sing next or what path to take on your walk. This simple shift lets children feel empowered and teaches them that being a leader also means listening and responding to the ones they’re 'leading.'
Remember, these simple moments, silly games, familiar rhymes, shared stories, are more than just passing time. They are the comforting patches that make up the quilt of their childhood. You’re doing beautifully, creating a world where they feel safe and loved.