22mo–3y9 minFree playFamily timeDevelopmental play
Activity–Adult–Peer: Quick Response Notes
A simple observation-and-share routine where you notices how your child responds to an activity, an adult joining in, and a peer (or pretend peer), then prepares a clear 3-bullet message to align support with staff and family.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a familiar activity/toy (blocks, crayons, a book, or a simple puzzle)
- a phone notes app or small notepad and pen
- 3 small pieces of paper or sticky notes (optional but helpful)
Nice to have
- a timer (phone timer is fine)
Movement level: false
What you'll do
The 4-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
- MilestoneCopies simple gestures or actionsMind· 6mo–2.3y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneShows interest in peer playHeart· 14mo–2y· core· Step 3
- MilestoneVoluntary sharingHeart· 2.3y–5y· core· Step 3
- MilestoneSeeks play with other childrenHeart· 3y–4y· core· Step 3
- MilestoneTakes turns in simple games with adult supportHeart· 20mo–3.3y· stretch· Step 2
What it practices
- Beginning to recognise danger and seeks support of significant adults for help.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Helps with clothing, e.g. puts on hat, unzips zipper on jacket, takes off unbuttoned shirt.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Drinks well without spilling.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Feeds self competently with spoon.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Clearly communicates their need for potty or toilet.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Discuss with staff and parents how each child responds to activities, adults and their peers.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)