2.5y–4.2y10 minToiletingSelf-careFamily time
Last Step Helper
A supportive self-care routine where you helps your child almost complete a dressing/toileting step, then leaves one last small step for your child to finish to build independence and confidence.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a regular self-care moment (e.g., pulling up trousers/leggings, putting on underwear, washing hands, putting on a jumper)
- clothing with an easy fit (elastic waist, larger opening) when possible
Nice to have
- a small stool or stable seat for balance
- a simple visual cue (picture/gesture) for the 'last step'
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
- MilestoneHelps manage clothingBody· 21mo–3y· core
- MilestoneBegins self-care independenceBody· 22mo–3y· core
- MilestoneCan tell adults when hungry or tired or when they want to rest or play.Body· 2.5y–4.2y· core· Step 3
- MilestonePuts on clothes with limited helpBody· 2.5y–3y· stretch
- MilestoneWashes and dries hands independentlyBody· 2.5y–3.3y· stretch
What it practices
- Gains more bowel and bladder control and can attend to toileting needs most of the time themselves.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Can usually manage washing and drying hands.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Can tell adults when hungry or tired or when they want to rest or play.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Understands that equipment and tools have to be used safely.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Help children who are struggling with self-care by leaving a last small step for them to complete, e.g. pulling up their trousers from just below the waist.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)