0mo–11mo10 minMealtimeFamily timeQuiet time
Feeding Pattern Check‑In
A short, structured chat that helps you and your child’s parents/carers align on feeding routines and cues, supporting consistent responses so your child feels safe, understood, and well cared for.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a simple daily feeding note (paper or phone notes)
- a pen/pencil (if using paper)
Nice to have
- a quiet corner for a brief chat
- a timer/phone to help keep the conversation short
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
- MilestoneAnticipates feeding cueMind· 1mo–6mo· core· Step 3
- MilestoneGets to know and enjoy daily routines, such as getting-up time, mealtimes, nappy time, and bedtime.Mind· 0mo–11mo· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneRooting response to cheek touchBody· 0mo–4mo· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneCries to communicate needsMind· 0mo–2mo· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneSignals feeding readiness refusalBody· 4mo–6mo· stretch· Steps 1, 3
What it practices
- Expresses discomfort, hunger or thirst.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Anticipates food routines with interest.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Opens mouth for spoon.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Responds to and thrives on warm, sensitive physical contactObservable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Talk to parents about the feeding patterns of young babies.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)