22mo–3y10 minFree playFamily time
Pretend Detective
A guided observation routine where the parent watches the child’s make-believe, encourages it with light prompts, and uses what they see to learn the child’s current interests.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a small toy/figure or soft toy
- 2 everyday props (cup, spoon, small box)
Nice to have
- a scarf/cloth
- paper and a crayon
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
- MilestoneSimple pretend playMind· 14mo–2.2y· core· Steps 1, 3, 4
- MilestoneCan select and use activities and resources with help.Heart· 22mo–3y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneExpresses own preferences and interests.Heart· 22mo–3y· core· Step 1
- MilestonePretends with imagined roles or thingsMind· 2y–3y· core
- MilestoneUses symbolic substitution (objects and words) in playMind· 20mo–3y· stretch
What it practices
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Observe and encourage children’s make-believe play in order to gain an understanding of their interests.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)