Which of the following is an indication of developmental delay in a three-year-old?

The indication of developmental delay in a three-year-old is best represented by the failure to understand and follow simple directions. At this age, children are typically expected to follow basic instructions, showing an understanding of language and social cues. This skill is crucial as it reflects cognitive and language development. When a three-year-old struggles with this task, it may suggest delays in their ability to process language, comprehend their environment, or engage in interactions that are pivotal for their growth and learning.

In contrast, the ability to produce consistently intelligible speech, enjoy playing near other children, and use sentences longer than four words are all signs of healthy development for a child of this age. These abilities indicate that the child is communicating effectively, socializing with peers, and demonstrating an expanding vocabulary and sentence structure, all of which are typical milestones for three-year-olds.