0mo–11mo8 minFamily timeMealtimeQuiet time
Names of People We Love
A gentle naming-and-connection chat that weaves special people (family members) into daily routines, supporting recognition, comfort, and shared attention for your child.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a comfortable cuddle spot
Nice to have
- a printed photo of a family member
- a short voice note from a family member (played briefly at low volume)
Movement level: false
What you'll do
The 4-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
- MilestoneResponds to a speaking personHeart· 0mo–14mo· core
- MilestoneUnderstands familiar single wordsMind· 7mo–14mo· core· Step 4
- MilestoneRecognizes familiar caregiverHeart· 0mo–10mo· core
- MilestonePoints and gazes to share attentionHeart· 8mo–2y· stretch· Step 4
- MilestoneDeveloping the ability to follow others’ body language, including pointing and gesture.Mind· 10mo–15mo· core· Step 4
- MilestoneShows preference for familiar peopleHeart· 6mo–18mo· stretch
What it practices
- Recognises and is most responsive to main carer’s voice: face brightens, activity increases when familiar carer appears.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Responds when talked to, for example, moves arms and legs, changes facial expression, moves body and makes mouth movements.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Responds to what carer is paying attention to, e.g. following their gaze.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Enjoys the company of others and seeks contact with others from birth.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Talk with babies about special people, such as their family members, e.g. grandparents.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)