3 is a special age..

Always think that 3 is a special age, because that is the age when children starts to have long-term memory, such that they can remember (for life) certain events in their life.

Above are the birthday presents I have specially chosen for my 3 year-old daughter:

1. Karen Katz's "Little Dos and Don'ts" that includes books like "I can Share", "No Hitting" and "Excuse Me"

I love Karen Katz's books. She is also the author of "Where is baby's belly button?" She uses "lift-a-flap" technique to teach children the right behaviour in these 3 books.

2. "Corduroy" - an award-winning children's book by Don Freeman.

I love the story of Corduroy, a little bear who longs for a home. A little girl saw him at a departmental store, and wanted to take him home. However, as the girl's mommy had spent all the money for the day, she remarked that "He (Corduroy) doesn't look new, and has even lost a button" Wanting to be accepted, Corduroy went in search for his lost button. And in the midst of his search, had a little adventure at the departmental store. A few days later, the little girl came back, and with enough money saved, bought Corduroy home, and even sewed a new button for him.

This story teaches children about self-worth. It doesn't matter whether you've 'lost a button' or have some flaws. Somewhere on earth, there is someone who loves you, and who doesn't care about how you look.

3. "Elmo and Big Bird" hand puppets

Puppets are great for role-play. Children playing with puppets can act out their feelings and thoughts, and learn to express themselves. Parents can also use puppets to convey messages to their children. While children may sometimes NOT want to listen to what adults have to say, they are most willing to listen to what their pals (the puppets) have to say. Thus, I'd think that puppets are a a great gift for a 3 year-old, who is starting to experience different things like fear, feelings.