16mo–2.2y7 minFamily timeSelf-careMealtime
I Did It Glow: Sharing Self-Help Joy
A flexible coaching script that helps you spot a self-help moment, share your child’s pleasure with specific, warm praise, and gently extend independence across dressing, drinking, hygiene, or toileting routines.
What you'll need
Essentials
- one everyday self-help moment (choose one): cup, spoon, coat sleeve, shoes, towel, or handwashing cloth
Nice to have
- a small cup with a little water
- a simple snack with 2 choices (e.g., banana piece or toast piece)
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· core· Step 2
- MilestoneBegins self-care independenceBody· 22mo–3y· stretch
- MilestoneDemonstrates sense of self as an individual, e.g. wants to do things independently, says “No” to adult.Heart· 16mo–2.2y· core· Steps 1, 3
- MilestoneExpresses feelings through words or actionsHeart· 22mo–3y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneSupported routine participationMind· 8mo–20mo· core· Steps 1, 3
- MilestoneParticipates in hygiene routinesBody· 15mo–2.3y· stretch
- MilestoneHolds and drinks from a cupBody· 15mo–18mo· core
- MilestoneHelps manage clothingBody· 21mo–3y· stretch
- MilestoneFeeds self with spoonBody· 12mo–2.1y· core
What it practices
- Develops own likes and dislikes in food and drink.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Willing to try new food textures and tastes.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Holds cup with both hands and drinks without much spilling.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Clearly communicates wet or soiled nappy or pants.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Shows some awareness of bladder and bowel urges.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Share children’s pleasure when they do something for themselves.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)