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Younger Preschooler (33-48 Months)

Younger Preschoolers are beginning to enjoy playing with other children, especially pretending or involved in dramatic play. Their emotions are usually extreme and short-lived but are beginning to understand others' emotions. They are demonstrating a natural curiosity and are eager to learn. 
 
Since all children develop at their own pace, reaching milestones can vary at occur at different stages. If you have a concern about your child's development, have discussions with your pediatrician. 
Group of kids outside smiling and laughing looking at the camera

Approaches to Learning

Children are born with an inclination to learn. This is reflected in behaviors and attitudes such as curiosity, problem-solving, maintaining attention, and persistence.

Boy holding a banner while smiling

Social Development & Emotional Development

Children's feelings about themselves and their relationships with others is the foundation for personality development. These characteristics and skills impact every other area of development.

Boy sitting on the floor while coloring on paper

Communication, Language & Literacy

From birth, children are learning language and developing the ability to communicate. Talking, singing, reading, and responding effectively when children express themselves are great investments supporting learning.

Boy wearing goggles playing with colored water in beakers

Cognitive Development

This fascinating area of development includes understanding how children acquire, organize, and use information in increasingly complex ways. Through play, skills are developed as the foundation for exploring and understanding more sophisticated concepts.

Girl sitting on mom's lap while mom shows her the garden

Health & Physical Development

Physical growth, muscle development, nutrition, self-care, health and safety practices are included in this area. Safe and healthy practices support the ability to learn more effectively in all areas.

Screenshot of the South Dakota early Learning guidelines

Want it all in one place?
Get your copy of the South Dakota Early Learning Guide.