2.5y–4.2y12 minFree playFamily timeQuiet time
Pretend Feelings Helpers
A symbolic-play routine where you supports your child to use pretend characters and simple stories to express feelings safely, practise calming strategies, and try different endings. Note: no construct IDs were provided for this sub-window, so scaffolds_constructs is empty.
What you'll need
Essentials
- 2–4 toys for pretend (e.g., stuffed animals, dolls, figures, cars)
- a few everyday props (e.g., blanket, spoon, cup, small box)
- paper and a crayon/pencil (optional for drawing feelings)
Nice to have
- a cushion or pillow for ‘calm corner’ pretend
- a timer (phone)
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
- MilestoneExpresses feelings through words or actionsHeart· 22mo–3y· core
- MilestoneCalms with adult helpHeart· 20mo–3.2y· core
- MilestoneCreates pretend small world stories with toysMind· 3y–4y· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneAdds a sequenced storylineMind· 4y–5y· stretch· Step 4
- MilestonePretends with imagined roles or thingsMind· 2y–3y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneAnswers story questionsMind· 2.1y–3.1y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneAnswers simple open questionsMind· 2.3y–3.3y· core· Step 4
- MilestoneAnswers questions about a storyMind· 4y–6y· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneTalks about own interests and ideasMind· 4y–5y· core· Step 4
- MilestoneOffers comfortHeart· 3y–4.5y· stretch
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Support children’s symbolic play, recognising that pretending to do something can help a child to express their feelings.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)