Preschoolers 3-5 years

Your child is learning so much every day! Between ages 3 and 5, kids grow their independence, learn how to share and play with others, and start to understand their feelings. This is an exciting time, and there are lots of ways you can help them thrive.

Is your child starting school soon? Check out our Getting Ready for Kindergarten page for tips to make the transition easier.

Learn more how Southwestern Public Health supports children in school.

How do I support my preschooler's growth?

Preschoolers are curious, busy, and full of energy! Here’s how you can help them grow:

Speech and language

Around 3 to 3 ½ years old, your child will be full of humour, confidence, and charm. They’ll start talking more and learning new words every day.
Preschoolers are curious about the world and will ask lots of “why” and “how” questions. This is a perfect time to explain how things work and introduce new words for objects, ideas, and feelings. Reading books and telling stories is a fun way to help your child learn and grow their imagination.

Independence and responsibility

Your child is becoming more independent. They may want to put on their own shoes, get a drink of water, or brush their teeth by themselves. They are also discovering what their body can do, like running faster or jumping higher. Your encouragement, praise, and support will help them feel confident.
You can let your child help with simple tasks, like putting groceries in the cart, shovelling snow, or stirring the bowl while you cook. Be patient and notice their efforts. Focus on what they’re doing well and thank them for being such a great helper!

Empathy

Your child is starting to understand their own feelings and care about how others feel too. It’s important to listen to your child and show respect for their emotions. Avoid making fun of their fears or shaming them for how they feel.
Encourage your child to play with other kids. Playing together helps them learn to take turns, share, and use their imagination while building early friendships.

Safe play

Preschoolers still need close supervision because they are learning right from wrong and don’t always know their own limits. By teaching simple rules and setting clear boundaries, you can help your child stay safe while still having fun and exploring.

What are some tips to bond with my preschooler?

Building a bond with your child helps them feel supported. Here are some ideas:

Listen when they talk, and ask about their day
Show them how to handle feelings by talking about your own emotions
Do fun activities together, like drawing, playing games, or exploring outside
Create routines so they know what to expect every day

Where can I find more Child and Family Health support?

Explore additional support services available to you:

Join the Healthy Babies Healthy Children program for free support for your family’s health from our Public Health Nurses or a Parent Resource Worker
Learn more about Child & Family Health Topics – Explore our resources on child and family health topics

How can I reach SWPH for parenting and child support?

Have questions about parenting, health, or development? Call our Know & Grow Line to speak with a Public Health Nurse:

Oxford County: 519-421-9901 ext. 3473
Elgin County: 519-631-9900 ext. 1400

Southwestern Public Health (8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday)

St. Thomas Site
(Administrative office)
1230 Talbot Street
St. Thomas, ON N5P 1G9

Woodstock Site
410 Buller Street
Woodstock, ON N4S 4N2

Call us toll free: 1-800-922-0096
Email us