2.5y–4.2y10 minFamily timeOutdoorFree play
Models & Plans Spotter
Coach the adult to talk with your child about models and plans they can see at home and in the local environment, then make a simple model/plan together and use it in play.
What you'll need
Essentials
- paper (any size) and a pen/pencil
- a few building items (blocks/stacking cups/empty small boxes)
- one small toy (e.g., a car/animal) to use with the plan
Nice to have
- a phone to show a photo/map (optional)
- a simple leaflet/packaging with a picture ‘diagram’ (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
- MilestoneBuilds with non-block construction piecesBody· 2.5y–4.2y· core
- MilestoneBuilds block structures (vertical, walls, enclosures)Body· 2.5y–4.2y· stretch
- MilestoneUnderstands that they can use lines to enclose a space, and then begin to use these shapes to represent objects.Mind· 2.5y–4.2y· stretch· Step 2
- MilestoneCreate simple representations of events, people and objects.Mind· 3.3y–5y· stretch· Step 2
What it practices
- Understands that they can use lines to enclose a space, and then begin to use these shapes to represent objects.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Beginning to construct, stacking blocks vertically and horizontally, making enclosures and creating spaces.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Realises tools can be used for a purpose.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Talk with children about where they can see models and plans in the environment, such as at the local planning office, in the town square, or at the new apartments down the road.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)