16mo–2.2y10 minActive playFree playFamily time
Big Energy, Safe Stretch Check-Ins
A short movement circuit for 16–26 months with built-in pause-and-check moments so you stay alert to safety, especially when your child tries to climb, kick, or reach beyond their current control.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a clear floor space (carpet or non-slip surface)
- 2–4 cushions or pillows (for soft boundaries and safe landings)
- a rolled towel/blanket (to make a low ‘log’ to step over)
- a large soft ball (or a soft toy for gentle kicking)
Nice to have
- masking tape to mark a simple boundary line
- a small cup of water for a quick rest break
- a phone for a 30-second timer
Movement level: mild
What you'll do
The 4-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
- MilestoneStops when instructedHeart· 22mo–3y· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneStoops or squats and stands againBody· 15mo–18mo· core· Step 2
- MilestoneKicks while standing independentlyBody· 15mo–2.3y· core
- MilestoneKicks a ball forwardBody· 2.2y–3y· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneFollows visually supported instructionsMind· 8mo–18mo· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneUnderstands no or prohibitive wordsMind· 9mo–18mo· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneWalks independentlyBody· 15mo–20mo· stretch
- MilestoneRunsBody· 14mo–2.2y· core
What it practices
- Runs safely on whole foot.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Squats with steadiness to rest or play with object on the ground, and rises to feet without using hands.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Climbs confidently and is beginning to pull themselves up on nursery play climbing equipment.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Can kick a large ball.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Be alert to the safety of children, particularly those who might overstretch themselves.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)