3.3y–5y10 minSocial playWith other childrenFree play
More Than One: No-Wait Turn-Taking Games
A simple setup where you provide duplicates (or easy substitutes) so children can play the same gross-motor game without long waits, keeping enjoyment high while still practising sharing and cooperation.
What you'll need
Essentials
- 2 soft balls (or 2 rolled-up sock balls)
- 2 targets (e.g., 2 baskets/boxes)
- masking tape or 2 scarves (to mark start lines)
Nice to have
- 4–6 plastic cups (as ‘bowling pins’)
- a small timer (phone) for short rounds
Movement level: mild
What you'll do
The 4-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
- MilestoneCooperates and shares with peersHeart· 3y–5y· core· Step 3
- MilestoneShows increasing control over an object in pushing, patting, throwing, catching or kicking it.Body· 3.3y–5y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneCooperative peer playHeart· 2.7y–3.8y· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneAdjusts to stated expectationsHeart· 2.5y–3.7y· stretch· Step 4
- MilestoneNegotiates space while movingBody· 3.3y–5y· core
- MilestoneShows understanding of how to transport and store equipment safely.Mind· 3.3y–5y· stretch· Step 4
- MilestoneMakes sharp turns while runningBody· 3.3y–5y· stretch
- MilestoneClimbs playground equipmentBody· 3.3y–5y· stretch
What it practices
- Shows increasing control over an object in pushing, patting, throwing, catching or kicking it.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Negotiates space successfully when playing racing and chasing games with other children, adjusting speed or changing direction to avoid obstacles.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Provide sufficient equipment for children to share, so that waiting to take turns does not spoil enjoyment.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)