2.5y–4.2y10 minFree playReadingQuiet time
My Own Book Time
A calm book-basket routine where your child chooses a book, looks through pages independently, and builds stamina while you stays nearby but does not lead the reading.
What you'll need
Essentials
- 2–4 picture books (or bath books)
- a comfy spot (cushion/blanket/chair)
Nice to have
- a small basket/box for the books
- a scrap of paper as a bookmark
- a soft toy to 'read' to
Movement level: false
What you'll do
The 3-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
- MilestoneLooks at books independentlyMind· 2.5y–4.2y· core
- MilestoneFocuses on self-chosen activityMind· 2.5y–4.2y· stretch
- MilestoneExpresses own preferences and interests.Heart· 22mo–3y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneAttends to book contentMind· 18mo–2.6y· stretch
- MilestoneIndependent page turningBody· 10mo–22mo· stretch
- MilestoneEnjoys an increasing range of books.Mind· 3.3y–5y· stretch· Step 3
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