16mo–2.2y12 minArtFamily timeChore time
Copy My Picture: Press and Print
A supervised copying activity where your child creates a simple drawing and uses a home/setting copier or printer/scanner (if available) to make a copy, building early confidence with machines, buttons, and cause-and-effect while comparing "same" and "different" outcomes.
What you'll need
Essentials
- paper
- thick crayons or washable markers
- a copying machine if you already have access (photocopier OR printer/scanner)
Nice to have
- a safe step stool (adult held/steady) if needed for reach
- tape or a folder to keep the original and copies together
Movement level: low
What you'll do
The 3-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
- MilestoneActivates buttons and switchesBody· 2y–2.5y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneExperiments with object actionsMind· 8mo–20mo· core· Step 2
- MilestoneShows interest in toys with buttons, flaps and simple mechanisms and beginning to learn to operate them.Mind· 8mo–20mo· core
- MilestoneScribbles or makes marksBody· 12mo–22mo· core· Step 1
- MilestoneUses mark-making toolsBody· 22mo–2.8y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneOperates mechanical toys, e.g. turns the knob on a wind-up toy or pulls back on a friction car.Mind· 16mo–2.2y· stretch
- MilestoneExpresses own preferences and interests.Heart· 22mo–3y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneHelps with simple household tasksHeart· 18mo–3y· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneRemembers where objects belong.Mind· 20mo–2.7y· stretch· Step 3
What it practices
- Seeks to acquire basic skills in turning on and operating some ICT equipment.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Matches parts of objects that fit together, e.g. puts lid on teapot.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Remembers where objects belong.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Let children use machines like the photocopier to copy their own pictures.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)