16mo–2.2y9 minSelf-careFamily timeQuiet time
My Job, My Time: Self-Chosen Task Finish
A short routine where you protects time for your child to complete a self-chosen task (like putting on shoes) with calm waiting, minimal prompts, and celebration of persistence—supporting autonomy and self-care confidence.
What you'll need
Essentials
- your child’s shoes (or another safe self-chosen item/task)
- a stable spot to sit (floor, step, or low chair)
Nice to have
- a simple timer (phone) to remind adults to slow down
- a small basket for ‘ready to go’ items
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
- MilestoneDemonstrates sense of self as an individual, e.g. wants to do things independently, says “No” to adult.Heart· 16mo–2.2y· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneBegins self-care independenceBody· 22mo–3y· core
- MilestoneHelps manage clothingBody· 21mo–3y· stretch
- MilestoneCan select and use activities and resources with help.Heart· 22mo–3y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneExpresses own preferences and interests.Heart· 22mo–3y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneSupported routine participationMind· 8mo–20mo· core· Step 3
- MilestoneParticipates in hygiene routinesBody· 15mo–2.3y· stretch· Step 3
What it practices
- Develops own likes and dislikes in food and drink.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Willing to try new food textures and tastes.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Holds cup with both hands and drinks without much spilling.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Clearly communicates wet or soiled nappy or pants.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Shows some awareness of bladder and bowel urges.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Shows awareness of what a potty or toilet is used for.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Shows a desire to help with dressing/undressing and hygiene routines.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Gradually able to engage in pretend play with toys (supports child to understand their own thinking may be different from others).Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Demonstrates sense of self as an individual, e.g. wants to do things independently, says “No” to adult.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Ensure that there is time for young children to complete a self-chosen task, such as trying to put on their own shoes.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)