16mo–2.2y10 minFree playChore timeFamily time
Fill, Carry, Empty: Tiny Delivery Runs
A simple transport-and-transfer game using paper bags, baskets, or buckets to practise filling, emptying, and carrying with control (plus lots of ‘again’ motivation).
What you'll need
Essentials
- one small paper carrier bag OR basket OR bucket
- 5–10 safe carry items (e.g., socks, soft toys, plastic cups, large blocks)
- a second container or ‘drop spot’ (a box, bowl, or laundry basket)
Nice to have
- a towel/blanket to mark a simple ‘start’ and ‘finish’ space
- two different containers (bag + basket) to compare
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
- MilestoneEnjoys filling and emptying containers.Mind· 8mo–20mo· stretch· Steps 2, 3
- MilestoneWalks independentlyBody· 15mo–20mo· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneActs from knowledge of propertiesMind· 16mo–2.3y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneUnderstands simple spoken instructionsMind· 14mo–18mo· stretch· Step 4
- MilestoneStops when instructedHeart· 22mo–3y· core· Step 3
- MilestoneHelps with simple household tasksHeart· 18mo–3y· core· Step 4
What it practices
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Provide items for filling, emptying and carrying, such as small paper carrier bags, baskets and buckets.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)