The infamous “terrible twos” used to be the greatest challenge for parents everywhere. That was until threenagers entered the scene. Ah, threenagers—what a delightful conundrum. With their wildly shifting opinions, intense emotions, and unpredictable behavior, they can truly test the patience of even the calmest parents.
But—call me crazy—I’m here to tell you that I believe threenagers are absolutely fantastic.
I can imagine your eye roll right now. You might think I’m just another older parent reminiscing about the past with a nostalgic lens. We’ve all seen it: a mother reflects on the newborn stage, conveniently forgetting the sleepless nights and endless crying. Another parent with a teenager laments how trivial potty training seemed compared to the stress of waiting for a teen to come home after curfew. And then there’s the empty-nester who insists we should cherish these moments because they pass so quickly! (Cue the eye roll again.)
But listen to me. I’m not one to don rose-colored glasses when it comes to my children’s childhood phases. In fact, I usually find myself enjoying whatever stage we’re currently navigating. I don’t feel the urge for another baby when I see a cute infant, nor do I long for the diaper days, despite the joy that comes with those cuddly baby moments. With my kids now aged 7 and 10, I do love this “sweet spot” we’re in, but let me tell you—I have a soft spot for threenagers, and it feels like just yesterday I had one in my home.
Honestly, threenagers often get a bad reputation. Yes, they can be dramatic and prone to emotional outbursts. They can turn a simple question about the day of the week into a 20-minute debate (we’ve all been there). They are moody, emotional, and occasionally irrational, but perhaps that’s why I relate to them so well.
Why Threenagers Are Remarkable
Beyond the behavioral quirks, let me share why I find threenagers to be truly remarkable.
Three-year-olds are vibrant and expressive, filled with laughter. While they may have their tantrums, they’re also small enough to be swiftly whisked away from a situation. Trust me, managing a flailing three-year-old in a restaurant is far simpler than mediating a loud argument between a 6- and 10-year-old over tablet time.
At this age, kids possess the sweetness of toddlers, but with a touch more predictability. Many are potty-trained and sleep in their own beds (though I say “many,” not “all”). They can engage in conversations, share jokes, and express their unique interests and preferences.
Three-year-olds are like bundles of energy, ready to tackle life head-on. They don tutus and rainbow-striped tights, don astronaut helmets as if they’re heading for the stars, and wear tiaras with the confidence of a future ruler because, in their eyes, they already own the world. They mix and match dress-up accessories, proudly donning multiple princess dresses simultaneously. To them, there are no “boy” or “girl” items—just things they love, and everyone else can step aside. This age embodies a true IDGAF attitude.
Sure, threenagers may cry easily and exhibit a flair for the dramatic, but they also giggle, love, and forgive just as easily. They might seem unreasonable at times, but they possess a keen awareness of their feelings, embracing the complexities of being human in an often chaotic environment. Their perceptions are not merely black and white but encompass a vibrant spectrum of colors and emotions.
While threenagers can be challenging, all children present their own set of difficulties. Nevertheless, these energetic little beings are a delightful mix of optimism, hope, and genuine emotion. For a three-year-old, every day is an adventure just waiting to be explored. That zest for life is precisely what makes threenagers so incredible.
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Summary
Threenagers, despite their reputation, are vibrant, expressive, and a delightful stage of childhood. Their energy, creativity, and emotional depth make them truly remarkable. Embracing their journey can be a rewarding experience for parents.