22mo–3y8 minSelf-careBath timeFamily time
Reach-and-Wash Steps
A short hand-washing independence routine where your child can reach soap and towel safely, practise the steps, and learn to ask for help when something feels tricky.
What you'll need
Essentials
- soap
- towel within reach
- sink/tap (or a bowl of water if needed)
- step stool (only if needed for reach and stability)
Nice to have
- non-slip mat or towel (for under the stool)
- a short hand-washing song or counting rhyme
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
- MilestoneWashes and dries hands through the steps, promptedBody· 2y–3.5y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneBegins self-care independenceBody· 22mo–3y· core
- MilestoneWashes and dries hands independentlyBody· 2.5y–3.3y· stretch
- MilestoneShows confidence in asking adults for help.Heart· 2.5y–4.2y· core· Step 4
- MilestoneParticipates in hygiene routinesBody· 15mo–2.3y· core
- MilestoneGestures wants or needsMind· 10mo–2.3y· stretch· Step 4
What it practices
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Create opportunities for moving towards independence, e.g. have hand-washing facilities safely within reach.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)