16mo–2.2y8 minOutdoorFamily timeQuiet time
Look Beyond: Watch, Wave, Wonder
An environment-and-talk routine that helps you provide safe opportunities for your child to see people and activities beyond their usual space (hallway, window, doorway), including older children—supporting curiosity and shared attention.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a safe viewing spot (window, open doorway, or hallway corner where your child can stay close to you)
- one small comfort item for your child (blanket or stuffed toy)
Nice to have
- a simple 'pointing tool' (your finger, or a small sticker on the window as a 'look here' dot)
- a phone photo of familiar people in the setting (optional)
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
- MilestoneClosely observes what animals, people and vehicles do.Mind· 8mo–20mo· stretch
- MilestoneShows interest in peer playHeart· 14mo–2y· stretch· Step 2
- MilestonePoints and gazes to share attentionHeart· 8mo–2y· core
- MilestoneCopies simple gestures or actionsMind· 6mo–2.3y· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneHas a strong exploratory impulse.Mind· 8mo–20mo· stretch· Step 2
- MilestoneIs curious about people and shows interest in stories about themselves and their family.Heart· 16mo–2.2y· core
- MilestoneIs more outgoing towards unfamiliar people and more confident in new social situations.Heart· 22mo–3y· stretch· Step 3
What it practices
- Is curious about people and shows interest in stories about themselves and their family.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Enjoys pictures and stories about themselves, their families and other people.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Has a sense of own immediate family and relations.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Provide opportunities for babies to see people and things beyond the baby room, including the activities of older children.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)