3.3y–5y10 minDevelopmental playFree playFamily time
Proud Without Stickers
A short routine where you helps your child notice their own success and effort after a small challenge, using reflection and descriptive feedback instead of external rewards.
What you'll need
Essentials
- one simple challenge item (e.g., a small puzzle, blocks, paper and crayons, or a simple matching/sorting set)
- a comfortable spot to work together
Nice to have
- a timer (phone is fine) for a ‘try time’
- a small tray or mat to define the work space
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
- MilestoneNames own feelingsHeart· 3y–4y· core· Step 3
- MilestoneTalks about own interests and ideasMind· 4y–5y· core· Steps 1, 4
- MilestoneUses talk to organise, sequence and clarify thinking, ideas, feelings and events.Mind· 3.3y–5y· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneCan describe self in positive terms and talk about abilities.Heart· 3.3y–5y· stretch· Step 3
What it practices
- Eats a healthy range of foodstuffs and understands need for variety in food.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Usually dry and clean during the day.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Shows some understanding that good practices with regard to exercise, eating, sleeping and hygiene can contribute to good health.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Shows understanding of the need for safety when tackling new challenges, and considers and manages some risks.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Shows understanding of how to transport and store equipment safely.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Practices some appropriate safety measures without direct supervision.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Confident to speak to others about own needs, wants, interests and opinions.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Can describe self in positive terms and talk about abilities.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Early Learning Goal Children are confident to try new activities, and say why they like some activities more than others. They are confident to speak in a familiar group, will talk about their ideas, and will choose the resources they need for their chosen activities. They say when they do or don’t need help.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Support children to feel good about their own success, rather than relying on a judgement from you such as wanting a sticker.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)