During a well‑child visit, a 3‑year‑old says, m Mommy, I love you. I am going to marry you. How should the nurse respond?

• A. Tell the mother that the statement is appropriate for his developmental stage
• B. Tell the child to stop such talk
• C. Explain that it is inappropriate for his age
• D. Ignore the statement

Answer: (A)

Preschoolers often express affection toward caregivers in grand, imaginative ways and may attach adult concepts like marriage to those feelings. This is normal at age three, reflecting magical thinking and limited understanding of adult roles. The nurse should validate the child’s feelings and reassure the parent that this kind statement is developmentally appropriate. A helpful approach is to acknowledge the love while gently guiding understanding, for example by saying that marriage is something adults decide, and it’s wonderful that he loves his mommy. This supports healthy attachment without shaming the child. Telling the child to stop or labeling the behavior as inappropriate, or ignoring it, does not recognize normal development and can create confusion or guilt.