0mo–11mo7 minFamily timeSelf-careQuiet time
Hello–Goodbye Bridge
A short, repeatable greeting and handover ritual that supports secure, trusting three-way relationships during transitions between carers.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a familiar comfort item (blanket, muslin, or soft toy)
Nice to have
- a short 'hello' or 'goodbye' song you like
- a small photo of the primary carer (printed or on a phone)
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
What it practices
- Enjoys the company of others and seeks contact with others from birth.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Recognises and is most responsive to main carer’s voice: face brightens, activity increases when familiar carer appears.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Responds when talked to, for example, moves arms and legs, changes facial expression, moves body and makes mouth movements.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Gazes at faces and copies facial movements. e.g. sticking out tongue, opening mouth and widening eyes.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Responds to what carer is paying attention to, e.g. following their gaze.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “At times of transition (such as shift changes) make sure staff greet and say goodbye to babies and their carers. This helps to develop secure and trusting three-way relationships.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)