Insights into Two- and Three-Year-Olds
The Exciting World of Two- and Three-Year-Olds
Two- and three-year-olds are at one of the most exciting stages of their lives, a time of discovering their independence. They experience great excitement as they learn to accomplish things on their own. “I want to do it!” is a frequent cry from a child of this age as both the child and the adult get accustomed to this newfound independence. In fact, it is this very independence that has given this age group the affectionate name of the “terrible twos.”
During this stage of development, children tend to have a language of their own. They do or say things that we might need a translator to understand! The more you understand them, the easier it is to communicate with them.
Offer Choices
Because of their desire for independence, twos and threes will often find themselves in conflict with adults. When redirecting the children, it is important to give them two choices: one being what the child should do and the other being either a consequence of the wrong action or a way for the adult to help. For example, if a child of two or three holds a toy, it automatically becomes his possession in his own mind. If the toy does not truly belong to him and you try to take it from him, the child may scream at you or hit you. Although this behavior is typical, it is not to be accepted. At this time, it is helpful to give the child a choice. “It is time to share now. Either you can give Matthew the toy, or I can give it to him. Which do you choose?” After the child chooses, also give him a gentle reminder to always share toys.
Giving children choices helps them not only to be independent but also to take responsibility for their actions. It helps a classroom to run smoothly as you and the children work together to resolve conflict. There is also far less struggle for power and control, something that the child clearly wants but that you need to possess and maintain.
Eager Sponges
It is also important for you to understand that although these children are very young, they are quite capable of learning. In fact, they are very much like sponges, eagerly soaking up all that they can. A favorite activity, such as playing with blocks, may seem like mere play, yet it teaches twos and threes many early skills such as math, science, and reading.
Other Pointers
- Speak to children on their level physically. Most adults are a great deal taller than preschoolers, which can be very intimidating to small children. Sit, bend down, or kneel when addressing them.
- Use short, concise sentences. This is especially important when giving directions. It is often best to give one direction at a time. For example, when making a craft, say: “First, put the glue on the paper. Good. Now, put the cotton on the glue.”
- Speak positively as much as possible. You will get much better responses from the children. For instance, if a young child is running, say to him, “Use walking feet” instead of saying, “No running.” This creates a much more positive atmosphere with less frustration for both the children and the teachers.
- Give choices when disciplining a child. For example, say: “You have a choice: You can sit with us and listen, or you can sit in a ‘time out.’ Which do you choose?” As discussed earlier, this allows children to take responsibility for their actions and hopefully helps them to make the right choice.
- Wear nice-looking, comfortable clothes. This will keep you from looking “stiff and formal.” It causes the parents (and the children) to feel that you are ready for interactive teaching, which involves a lot of movement. It also shows that they are important enough for you to dress nicely when teaching them.
- Spend lots of time sitting on the floor and playing with the children. This will help you not only to keep order but also to gain the respect of the children. Playing with them on their level shows them that they are valuable to you.