When assessing language development in children, which milestone is typically expected by age 3?

The ability to use complete sentences by age three is a significant milestone in language development. At this stage, children typically start combining words to form simple sentences, which reflects their growing understanding of grammar and syntax. By using more than two words in a sequence, children are demonstrating their ability to express more complex thoughts and ideas. This skill not only indicates progress in expressive language but also signifies advancements in cognitive development, as they start to form more coherent and connected speech.

In contrast, using basic gestures is an earlier milestone usually seen before the age of three. Reading at a basic level is a skill associated with later developmental stages, often around ages four to six. Understanding complex instructions typically develops after the age of three, as children continue to refine their language processing skills. Therefore, recognizing the ability to form complete sentences as a key milestone demonstrates an understanding of the typical trajectory of language development in early childhood.