2.5y–4.2y8 minSelf-careBath timeFamily time
Handwashing Picture Steps
Use a photo (or quick drawing) of handwashing to reinforce understanding of the sequence and support your child to follow and explain the steps.
What you'll need
Essentials
- soap
- water and sink (or a bowl of water)
- towel
- a photo on your phone OR paper and marker (to draw simple step pictures)
Nice to have
- a stuffed toy (for pretend teaching)
- sticky notes (to label steps)
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· Steps 2, 4
- MilestoneWashes and dries hands through the steps, promptedBody· 2y–3.5y· core· Step 3
- MilestoneUses talk to organise, sequence and clarify thinking, ideas, feelings and events.Mind· 3.3y–5y· stretch· Step 4
- MilestoneFollows instructions with several steps or actionsMind· 3.3y–4y· core
- MilestoneReenacts familiar experiencesMind· 2.2y–3.8y· stretch· Step 4
- MilestoneWashes and dries hands independentlyBody· 2.5y–3.3y· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneFollows detailed directions with remindersMind· 4.5y–5y· stretch
What it practices
- Is able to follow directions (if not intently focused on own choice of activity).Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Focusing attention – still listen or do, but can shift own attention.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Listens to others one to one or in small groups, when conversation interests them.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Showing children a photograph of an activity such as hand washing helps to reinforce understanding.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)