22mo–3y10 minArtFree playOutdoor
Mark-Making Toolbox Trail
A simple mark-making setup using a small toolbox of drawing tools to encourage big arm movements, standing balance, and noticing hand preference indoors and outdoors.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a small box or basket (the toolbox)
- large crayons or washable markers
- paper (large sheet) or a flattened cardboard box
- a cloth for wiping hands
Nice to have
- chalk (for outdoors)
- a paintbrush and a cup of water (for water painting on pavement or fence)
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
- MilestoneScribbles or makes marksBody· 12mo–22mo· core· Step 2
- MilestoneMay be beginning to show preference for dominant hand.Body· 22mo–3y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneExpresses own preferences and interests.Heart· 22mo–3y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneUses mark-making toolsBody· 22mo–2.8y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneCan select and use activities and resources with help.Heart· 22mo–3y· stretch· Step 1
What it practices
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Provide ‘tool boxes’ containing things that make marks, so that children can explore their use both indoors and outdoors.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)