16mo–2.2y10 minFamily timeSocial playChore time
Helper Spotlight Circle
A short, playful family routine that helps your child contribute in small ways (passing, choosing, helping) while you clearly name and celebrate their role in the group.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a small basket or bowl
- 3–6 safe household items or toys (easy to hold)
Nice to have
- a cloth or wipe for a simple 'helper' task
- 2–4 family members or soft toys to act as 'the group'
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
- MilestoneWelcomes and values praise for what they have done.Heart· 22mo–3y· stretch
- MilestoneHelps with simple household tasksHeart· 18mo–3y· core
- MilestoneExpresses own preferences and interests.Heart· 22mo–3y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneDemonstrates sense of self as an individual, e.g. wants to do things independently, says “No” to adult.Heart· 16mo–2.2y· core
- MilestoneUnderstands simple spoken instructionsMind· 14mo–18mo· stretch· Steps 1, 3
- MilestoneUnderstands simple questionsMind· 14mo–2.2y· core· Step 2
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Ensure that each child is recognised as a valuable contributor to the group.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)