3.3y–5y12 minSocial playFree playFamily time
May I? Toy Swap Talk
A friendly role-play that models negotiation phrases for sharing, turn-taking, and compromise during play.
What you'll need
Essentials
- 2 toys that your child enjoys (or 2 household objects for pretend play)
- a timer (phone is fine) or a simple ‘count to 10’
Nice to have
- a small blanket or tape line to mark ‘my space / your space’
- a third item to use as a ‘trade’ token (e.g., a spoon)
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
- MilestoneNegotiates peer conflictsHeart· 4y–5y· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneTakes turns in simple games with adult supportHeart· 20mo–3.3y· stretch· Step 2
- MilestoneTalks about own interests and ideasMind· 4y–5y· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneLonger sentencesMind· 3.3y–5y· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneUses three- to five-word sentencesMind· 2y–4y· core
- MilestoneIndependently restrains impulsesHeart· 4y–6y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneAssigns roles in shared playHeart· 4y–5y· core
- MilestoneUses Intonation and Rhythm to Clarify MeaningMind· 2.5y–4.2y· stretch
What it practices
- Extends vocabulary, especially by grouping and naming, exploring the meaning and sounds of new words.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Uses language to imagine and recreate roles and experiences in play situations.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Links statements and sticks to a main theme or intention.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Uses talk to organise, sequence and clarify thinking, ideas, feelings and events.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Introduces a storyline or narrative into their play.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Show children how to use language for negotiating, by saying “May I…?”, “Would it be all right…?”, “I think that…” and “Will you…” in your interactions with them.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)