2.5y–4.2y10 minArtFamily timeFree play
Project Parking Spot
A practical routine where the adult creates a safe ‘work in progress’ place so your child can pause a creative project, keep it protected, and return to continue—supporting persistence, planning, and valuing ongoing making.
What you'll need
Essentials
- tray/box lid/shallow container (the ‘parking spot’)
- a current project: blocks/stacking cups OR paper + crayons/pencils
- tape or a sticky note (to label the parking spot)
- a safe out-of-the-way surface (shelf/counter/side table)
Nice to have
- phone camera (optional photo to remember the project)
- zip bag or small container (to hold loose pieces)
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
- MilestoneSaves desired things for laterHeart· 2.5y–3y· stretch· Steps 2, 4
- MilestoneFocuses on self-chosen activityMind· 2.5y–4.2y· stretch· Steps 1, 3
- MilestoneShows understanding of how to transport and store equipment safely.Mind· 3.3y–5y· stretch· Steps 2, 4
- MilestoneStops when instructedHeart· 22mo–3y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneStays focused during activityMind· 2.5y–3y· core· Steps 1, 3
- MilestoneCan select and use activities and resources with help.Heart· 22mo–3y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneHelps with simple household tasksHeart· 18mo–3y· core· Step 4
What it practices
- Uses various construction materials.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Understands that they can use lines to enclose a space, and then begin to use these shapes to represent objects.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Explores colour and how colours can be changed.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Provide a place where work in progress can be kept safely.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)