16mo–2.2y11 minFree playActive playOutdoor
Boxes & Steps: Big-Play Mini Course
A safety-first 16–26 month big-play setup using boxes, cushions, a low step and a ‘barrel’ basket for climbing, crawling and carrying—plus quick page-turning and pouring stations to strengthen fine-motor control.
What you'll need
Essentials
- 2–3 cardboard boxes (or large cushions)
- a laundry basket (as a ‘barrel’/drop zone)
- a sturdy low step or bottom stair with adult support (as a ‘ladder’ idea)
- a clear floor space (carpet or a mat if possible)
- a sturdy board book
- a small cup/jug and a bowl (for pouring practice)
- one safe carry item (soft toy or small cushion)
Nice to have
- masking tape to mark a simple path
- a towel/blanket to make a ‘tunnel’ over two cushions
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
- MilestoneHas a strong exploratory impulse.Mind· 8mo–20mo· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneWalks upstairs with supportBody· 18mo–2.3y· core
- MilestoneEnjoys filling and emptying containers.Mind· 8mo–20mo· stretch· Steps 2, 4
- MilestoneIndependent page turningBody· 10mo–22mo· core
- MilestoneTurns pages one at a timeBody· 2y–2.5y· core· Step 3
- MilestoneStacks two blocksBody· 14mo–18mo· stretch
What it practices
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Provide a range of large play equipment that can be used in different ways, such as boxes, ladders, A-frames and barrels.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)