—10 minChore timeFamily time
My Helper Job
A short helper-job routine that lets your toddler take responsibility for simple tasks and enjoy being noticed for completing them.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a small basket/bag
- 5-10 easy-to-carry items (e.g., napkins, spoons, socks, toy cars)
- one destination spot (e.g., table edge, toy box, laundry basket)
Nice to have
- a small cloth for wiping (any old washcloth)
- a simple helper badge (paper sticker or a drawn circle)
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
- MilestoneHelps with simple household tasksHeart· 18mo–3y· core
- MilestoneLikes helping with tasksHeart· 2.5y–3.5y· core
- MilestoneStays focused during activityMind· 2.5y–3y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneFollows two spoken directionsMind· 16mo–2.3y· stretch· Step 4
- MilestoneFollows linked routine actionsMind· 18mo–2.3y· stretch· Step 4
What it practices
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE) — construct-derived activity authored from enriched DM2012 construct