2.5y–4.2y10 minReadingQuiet timeFree play
Cozy Listening Nook: Rhyme & Story Time
A short routine that helps you set up a predictable listening spot so your child can settle, attend to rhymes/stories, join repeated refrains, and recall what happened.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a blanket/rug or small mat
- 2–4 familiar books (rhymes and short stories)
- 2 cushions/pillows or a comfy chair
- a small basket/box to hold the books
Nice to have
- a soft toy as a 'listening buddy'
- a simple phone timer (for a gentle 5–10 minute limit)
- a window curtain/scarf to make a small 'den' (only if safe)
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
- MilestoneListens and joins inMind· 2.3y–3.3y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneAttends and recallsMind· 2.5y–4.2y· core
- MilestoneCompletes Familiar Story or Rhyme PhrasesMind· 20mo–2.7y· stretch
- MilestoneAnswers story questionsMind· 2.1y–3.1y· core· Step 3
- MilestoneStays focused during activityMind· 2.5y–3y· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneAttends to book contentMind· 18mo–2.6y· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneShows nonverbal story understandingMind· 3y–5y· core· Step 3
- MilestoneAnswers questions about a storyMind· 4y–6y· core
- MilestoneCopies a tapping patternMind· 2.8y–3y· stretch· Step 4
- MilestoneExpresses own preferences and interests.Heart· 22mo–3y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneCreates sounds by banging, shaking, tapping or blowing.Mind· 7mo–10mo· stretch· Step 4
- MilestoneRecognizes rhymesMind· 3.3y–5y· core· Step 2
What it practices
- Listens to stories with increasing attention and recall.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Joins in with repeated refrains and anticipates key events and phrases in rhymes and stories.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Focusing attention – still listen or do, but can shift own attention.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Is able to follow directions (if not intently focused on own choice of activity).Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Set up a listening area where children can enjoy rhymes and stories.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)