What can a child around 3 years of age typically do in terms of vocabulary?

A child around 3 years of age typically can carry on simple conversations, which reflects significant growth in language skills at this stage of development. By this age, many children have expanded their vocabulary and can not only use a variety of words but also combine them into simple sentences. This ability to engage in basic conversations indicates a level of understanding and social interaction that is characteristic of this developmental milestone.

While it is common for 3-year-olds to recognize and join in with nursery rhymes, and some may be able to use around 200 words, the capacity to engage in simple conversations is a broader and more defining skill at this age. Painting and drawing, while important developmental activities, do not relate directly to vocabulary or language skills. Thus, the ability to carry on simple conversations best captures the linguistic abilities of a typical 3-year-old.