If it feels like you’re raising a “three-nager,” you are not alone! Tantrums and meltdowns are common at this age and discipline can be challenging. When possible, use natural consequences (such as removing a toy the child is throwing) as opposed to vague or future-oriented punishments (such as taking away screen time for the week). Positive reinforcement, or praising good behaviors, often goes farther than reprimanding bad behaviors at this age. It is also a parent’s job to teach kids right from wrong and to give them skills to be resilient. You should validate a child’s feelings while also being consistent with boundaries and expectations (“it’s ok to be angry, but I can’t let you hit.”) Model emotion regulation when you feel yourself getting upset or frustrated- everyone can benefit from some deep breathing!

Looking for some book resources? You can check out Raising Good Humans, No Drama Discipline, Tiny Humans, Big Emotions or Hunt, Gather, Parent.

At this age, it is also common for kids to have questions about their bodies. Masturbation or self-stimulationcan be normal; avoid shaming your child for this. Instead, discuss how it is something that involves private parts and therefore happens in private. Use correct anatomical terms for body parts and begin talking to your children about body autonomy.