2.5y–4.2y10 minFree playSocial playFamily time
Play Talk: Wonder With Me
A guided ‘join the play’ routine where the adult gets involved without taking over, using simple ‘I wonder…’ prompts and reflective talk to encourage your child’s thinking, discussion, and listening during play.
What you'll need
Essentials
- your child’s current play materials (blocks, cars, dolls, animals—whatever they choose)
- one simple extra prop you already have (e.g., a small box, cup, scarf, or spoon)
Nice to have
- paper and a crayon (to ‘draw the plan’ briefly)
- a phone camera (optional, to capture the finished play setup)
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
- MilestoneTwo-channelled attention – can listen and do for short span.Mind· 2.5y–4.2y· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneTalks about own interests and ideasMind· 4y–5y· stretch· Step 2
- MilestoneAnswers simple open questionsMind· 2.3y–3.3y· stretch· Step 2
- MilestoneSustains back-and-forth conversationMind· 3.3y–5y· core
- MilestoneExpresses own preferences and interests.Heart· 22mo–3y· stretch· Step 4
- MilestoneAdjusts to stated expectationsHeart· 2.5y–3.7y· core· Step 4
- MilestoneStops when instructedHeart· 22mo–3y· stretch· Step 4
What it practices
- Listens to others one to one or in small groups, when conversation interests them.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Focusing attention – still listen or do, but can shift own attention.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Is able to follow directions (if not intently focused on own choice of activity).Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Prompt children’s thinking and discussion through involvement in their play.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)