2.5y–4.2y12 minArtFree playFamily time
Plan–Make–Materials Talk
Coach the adult to support your child to decide what they want to make, talk through simple steps, and gather materials/resources (including using a photo/reference) before starting to build or create.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a reference to look at (a photo on a phone, a picture in a book, or the real object nearby)
- a few making materials (e.g., scrap paper/cardboard, small boxes, blocks/stacking cups)
- something to join with (tape or glue stick)
Nice to have
- crayons/markers for decorating
- a small cloth/tea towel as a ‘base’ to build on
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
- MilestoneSelects appropriate resources and adapts work where necessary.Mind· 3.3y–5y· core· Steps 3, 4
- MilestoneSelects tools and techniques needed to shape, assemble and join materials they are using.Mind· 3.3y–5y· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneManipulates materials to achieve a planned effect.Mind· 3.3y–5y· core· Step 4
- MilestoneTalks about own interests and ideasMind· 4y–5y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneCan select and use activities and resources with help.Heart· 22mo–3y· core· Steps 1, 3, 4
- MilestoneBuilds with non-block construction piecesBody· 2.5y–4.2y· core
- MilestoneExpresses own preferences and interests.Heart· 22mo–3y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneBuilds block structures (vertical, walls, enclosures)Body· 2.5y–4.2y· core
What it practices
- Uses various construction materials.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Joins construction pieces together to build and balance.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Realises tools can be used for a purpose.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Beginning to construct, stacking blocks vertically and horizontally, making enclosures and creating spaces.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Support children in thinking about what they want to make, the processes that may be involved and the materials and resources they might need, such as a photograph to remind them what the climbing frame is like.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)