Small Steps Online:
3-4 Years
Your child is now stepping into the world with more confidence, creativity, and curiosity than ever before. At this stage, you’ll notice growing independence, more complex language, and a deeper understanding of emotions and routines.
In this module, we’ll explore playful and purposeful ways to support your child’s development across all key areas — from movement and fine motor skills to communication and social connection. Each small step is a big part of their journey, and we’re here to support you both every step of the way.
How This Course Helps Your Baby Thrive
Start Small Steps today and give your baby the best start, one step at a time.
#Assess | #Practice | #Achieve
Module Overview
Gross Motor Skills
Your child is becoming more coordinated and adventurous in their movements. Gross motor skills now include running confidently, climbing playground equipment, balancing on one foot, catching large balls, and beginning to hop or pedal a tricycle.
Fine Motor Skills
Fine motor development includes drawing simple shapes, stringing beads, using child-safe scissors, and managing buttons or zippers with support. These skills help with tasks like dressing, feeding, and participating in creative play.
Communication Skills
Your child is using more detailed sentences, asking lots of questions, and sharing stories or experiences. Communication also includes expressing feelings with words, using language in pretend play, and beginning to understand how conversations work.
Receptive Language
Receptive language continues to grow quickly. Your child understands a wide range of instructions, concepts (like colours, size, position), and simple stories. They’re also beginning to grasp more abstract ideas and enjoy listening to longer books.
Personal & Social Skills
Your child is learning to play cooperatively, take turns, and begin problem-solving with others. They are becoming more aware of their own emotions and those of others, and are developing independence in routines like dressing, washing hands, and tidying up.
Disclaimer: The information provided on Small Steps Online is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, therapeutic, or developmental advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare providers, therapists, or relevant professionals regarding your child’s specific needs and situation. The September Institute and Small Steps Online are not liable for any outcomes resulting from the use or misuse of the information shared here.
Meet the #DownTeam
Ashley May
Ashley Rodgers is a dedicated physiotherapist based in Cape Town, South Africa, with a special passion for working with children. She graduated with a BSc in Physiotherapy from the University of Cape Town in 2017 and went on to complete her Community Service at the renowned Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital. It was during her time there that her deep interest in paediatrics truly took root.
In 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ashley opened her own private practice focused exclusively on paediatric physiotherapy, where she supports children with a wide range of gross motor challenges. Her commitment to learning and advancing the field continued with the completion of a Master’s degree in Physiotherapy at the University of Witwatersrand. Her research explored the relationship between physical activity and gross motor development in children aged 4–6 living in Cape Town.
Ashley is certified in both MAES therapy and General Movements Assessment, and she is currently completing the SANDTA Neurodevelopmental Therapy Course. Beyond her academic and professional achievements, Ashley treasures her role as a mother to a lively toddler—a journey that, she says, has taught her more than any degree ever could. This lived experience deepens her empathy and commitment to helping children and families thrive.
In 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ashley opened her own private practice focused exclusively on paediatric physiotherapy, where she supports children with a wide range of gross motor challenges. Her commitment to learning and advancing the field continued with the completion of a Master’s degree in Physiotherapy at the University of Witwatersrand. Her research explored the relationship between physical activity and gross motor development in children aged 4–6 living in Cape Town.
Ashley is certified in both MAES therapy and General Movements Assessment, and she is currently completing the SANDTA Neurodevelopmental Therapy Course. Beyond her academic and professional achievements, Ashley treasures her role as a mother to a lively toddler—a journey that, she says, has taught her more than any degree ever could. This lived experience deepens her empathy and commitment to helping children and families thrive.
#DownTeam
Ashley May
Physiotherapist
@ashleymay_physio
@ashleymay_physio
Nikita Oosthuizen
Nikita is a communications specialist with a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Communication Management from North-West University in South Africa, where she specialised in communication for social change.
With a background in both the private and non-profit sectors, she spent three years working with the United Nations in communications and fundraising—collaborating closely with beneficiaries, donors, and high-profile individuals. She was also part of a team leading a campaign to shift societal narratives around people who are different.
Passionate about helping others and creating inclusive spaces, she believes every person has a unique purpose that flourishes with the right guidance and support.
Today, she brings that vision to life in her role as Communications & Program Manager at Small Steps Online and The September Institute.
With a background in both the private and non-profit sectors, she spent three years working with the United Nations in communications and fundraising—collaborating closely with beneficiaries, donors, and high-profile individuals. She was also part of a team leading a campaign to shift societal narratives around people who are different.
Passionate about helping others and creating inclusive spaces, she believes every person has a unique purpose that flourishes with the right guidance and support.
Today, she brings that vision to life in her role as Communications & Program Manager at Small Steps Online and The September Institute.
#DownTeam
Nikita Oosthuizen
Communication & Program Manager
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