2.5y–4.2y12 minFamily timeSelf-careChore time
First, Next, Last: Routine Cards
Use 3 quick pictures from a familiar routine to help your child practise ordering events (first/next/last) and retelling the sequence in play or talk.
What you'll need
Essentials
- 3 quick picture cards from one familiar routine (photos on your phone or simple drawings on paper)
- a flat surface (table, sofa, or floor)
Nice to have
- sticky notes or tape (to keep pictures in place)
- a soft toy (to act out the routine)
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
- MilestoneOrders a complete familiar sequenceMind· 2.5y–4.2y· core
- MilestoneSays what will happen nextMind· 2.5y–4y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneUses talk to organise, sequence and clarify thinking, ideas, feelings and events.Mind· 3.3y–5y· core· Steps 2, 3
- MilestoneRetells Recent or Past EventsMind· 2.3y–3.2y· stretch
What it practices
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE) — construct-derived activity authored from enriched DM2012 construct