Keep in mind that all adults reach their developmental milestones at their own pace. It is important not to compare your adult’s rate of development to that of his peers. The following list is meant only as a guideline and not as a cause for alarm.

By thirty-years-old, your adult will probably be able to…

  • Feed and maintain a pet
  • Hold down a job
  • Maintain eye contact while speaking
  • Refrain from discussing high school
  • Cook a meal (three-course)
  • Make small talk
  • Forgive his family
  • Acknowledge other viewpoints (social)
  • Detect and respond to ambiguity
  • Finish school

Your thirty-year-old adult may be able to…

  • Make a martini (vodka)
  • Tie a half-Windsor knot
  • Drive a manual transmission
  • Refrain from discussing college
  • Get married
  • File his taxes (EZ form)
  • Remember 5-10 friends’ birthdays
  • Acknowledge other viewpoints (political)
  • Get a flu shot
  • Give a toast
  • Install storm windows
  • Go back to school

Some advanced thirty-year-olds may possibly be able to…

  • Make a martini (gin)
  • File his taxes (standard 1040)
  • Make and keep dental appointments
  • Have a baby
  • Finish school