22mo–3y10 minFamily timeFree playSelf-care
Choice Champion Moments
A short everyday choice routine where you offers two safe options, follows your child's decision, and reflects their agency back to them to build confidence and self-awareness.
What you'll need
Essentials
- two safe choices (e.g., two books, two snacks, two toys, or two items of clothing)
- a small clear space (table or floor) to place the choices
Nice to have
- a small basket or bag to 'save for later' an unchosen item
- a phone timer (optional)
Movement level: low
What you'll do
The 4-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
- MilestoneExpresses own preferences and interests.Heart· 22mo–3y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneDemonstrates sense of self as an individual, e.g. wants to do things independently, says “No” to adult.Heart· 16mo–2.2y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneFocuses on self-chosen activityMind· 2.5y–4.2y· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneGestures wants or needsMind· 10mo–2.3y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneStays focused during activityMind· 2.5y–3y· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneFocusing attention – still listen or do, but can shift own attention.Mind· 2.5y–4.2y· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneBegins self-care independenceBody· 22mo–3y· core
What it practices
- Beginning to recognise danger and seeks support of significant adults for help.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Clearly communicates their need for potty or toilet.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
- Feeds self competently with spoon.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Drinks well without spilling.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Value and support the decisions that children make”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)