16mo–2.2y10 minFamily timeMusicFree play
Mini Celebration Moments
A short, toddler-friendly routine that helps you celebrate and value cultural, religious, and community events through simple objects, songs, and pretend play—building warm curiosity and a sense of belonging for your child.
What you'll need
Essentials
- one photo on a phone (or printed) OR a small everyday object linked to a family/community event (e.g., a card, a scarf, a bowl, a flower)
- a soft toy/doll (any kind)
- something to make a gentle 'celebration sound' (clapping hands OR a pot and spoon)
Nice to have
- a short song you like (on your phone)
- paper and a crayon (to make a quick 'flag' or mark)
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
- MilestoneSimple pretend playMind· 14mo–2.2y· core· Step 3
- MilestoneCopies familiar adult actionsMind· 12mo–20mo· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneCopies simple gestures or actionsMind· 6mo–2.3y· stretch· Step 2
- MilestoneReenacts familiar experiencesMind· 2.2y–3.8y· core· Step 3
- MilestoneClaps handsBody· 9mo–17mo· stretch· Step 2
- MilestoneExpresses feelings through words or actionsHeart· 22mo–3y· stretch· Step 2
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
- In pretend play, imitates everyday actions and events from own family and cultural background, e.g. making and drinking tea.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Celebrate and value cultural, religious and community events and experiences”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)