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Development and Characteristics of a 45-46 Month Old Child

Last Updated: September 14, 2009

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Parenting Tips for Your 45-46 Month Old Child

How I Move:

  • I can dress myself, but my shirt may be inside out.
  • I like to put on clothes without snaps or buttons.
  • I can wash my hands and brush my teeth.
  • I draw shapes like circles and squares.
  • I like drawing my family.

How I Think:

  • I like to do things “all by myself”.
  • I can reason and figure things out. I know that four candles on the birthday cake means you are 4 years old.
  • I understand what has happened in the past, present and future. I understand what tomorrow is.
  • I learn by watching parents and other adults, but do not understand the danger in some things adults do like lighting matches.

How I Get Along:

  • I can take turns and share sometimes.
  • I probably have a special friend that I play with.
  • I do not like it when you tell me what to do.
  • I love to celebrate holidays and want to help with decorations.


Learn more about Your Child: 45-46 Months from Just In Time Parenting. You can also go to our Resource Links for additional information on child care and development.


Note to Parents: When reading this newsletter, remember: Every baby is different. Children may do things earlier or later than described here. This newsletter gives equal space and time to both sexes. If he or she is used, we are talking about all babies.
References: These materials were adapted by authors from Extension Just in Time Parenting Newsletters in California, Delaware, Georgia, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Tennessee, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, and Wisconsin.

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