Which of the following statements best describes language milestones typical for a 3-year-old?

• A. Speaks in full paragraphs and uses advanced grammar.
• B. Engages in pretend play and uses short phrases.
• C. Uses 3-word sentences; follows simple two-step commands; has a growing vocabulary; engages in pretend play.
• D. Only single words with no phrases.

Answer: (C)

Around age three, language development shows several steady hallmarks: children typically form three-word sentences, can follow simple two-step commands, have a rapidly expanding vocabulary, and engage in pretend play. This combination reflects both growing expressive language and emerging symbolic thinking.

The statement that best fits describes three-word sentences like “mommy go outside,” the ability to follow two-step instructions such as “wash hands, then eat,” a growing word bank from which they draw, and active pretend play which demonstrates using language in imaginative contexts. Together these features are typical for a 3-year-old.

Choices that suggest speaking in full paragraphs with advanced grammar are more characteristic of older preschoolers, not 3-year-olds. Options that emphasize only single words or only short phrases capture earlier stages of language development and don’t reflect the fuller milestone set seen at this age.