22mo–3y10 minFree playFamily timeMealtime
Interest Stations: Follow the Lead
A short ‘choice of stations’ activity to notice your child's changing interests, follow their lead, and support independence skills (drink/food/clothing) without forcing long attention.
What you'll need
Essentials
- two small ‘stations’ using what you already have at home
Nice to have
- small cup and small jug/bottle (tiny amount of water)
- small snack and spoon
- hat or easy jacket (unbuttoned/unzipped) for dress-up
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
- MilestoneExpresses own preferences and interests.Heart· 22mo–3y· core· Steps 1, 4
- MilestoneCan select and use activities and resources with help.Heart· 22mo–3y· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneFocuses on self-chosen activityMind· 2.5y–4.2y· stretch· Step 2
- MilestoneFocusing attention – still listen or do, but can shift own attention.Mind· 2.5y–4.2y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneBegins self-care independenceBody· 22mo–3y· core
- MilestoneSingle channelled attention. Can shift to a different task if attention fully obtained – using child’s name helps focus.Mind· 16mo–2.2y· core· Step 4
- MilestoneHelps with simple household tasksHeart· 18mo–3y· core· Step 4
- MilestoneStays focused during activityMind· 2.5y–3y· stretch· Step 2
- MilestonePours or serves food or drink with supervisionBody· 3y–5y· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneHelps manage clothingBody· 21mo–3y· stretch
- MilestoneFeeds self with spoonBody· 12mo–2.1y· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneDrinks well without spillingBody· 22mo–3y· stretch
What it practices
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Recognise that children’s interest may last for short or long periods, and that their interest and preferences vary.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)