3.3y–5y10 minQuiet timeStory timeFamily time
Pause-Plan-Speak
A calm routine that builds in real thinking time so your child can plan what to say, link ideas together, and find precise words without being rushed or interrupted.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a picture book OR your child’s drawing OR 3 everyday objects (e.g., spoon, sock, toy car)
Nice to have
- paper and a pencil to jot key words
- a timer/phone set to silent (optional)
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
- MilestoneUses three- to five-word sentencesMind· 2y–4y· core
- MilestoneLinks statements and sticks to a main theme or intention.Mind· 3.3y–5y· core· Step 3
- MilestoneUses talk to organise, sequence and clarify thinking, ideas, feelings and events.Mind· 3.3y–5y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneUses Intonation and Rhythm to Clarify MeaningMind· 2.5y–4.2y· stretch
- MilestoneExtends vocabulary, especially by grouping and naming, exploring the meaning and sounds of new words.Mind· 3.3y–5y· stretch· Step 4
What it practices
- Uses talk to organise, sequence and clarify thinking, ideas, feelings and events.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Links statements and sticks to a main theme or intention.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Extends vocabulary, especially by grouping and naming, exploring the meaning and sounds of new words.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Give thinking time for children to decide what they want to say and how they will say it.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)