2.5y–4.2y12 minChore timeFamily timeFree play
Real-Life List & Tick
A practical mini-activity where you model writing for a real purpose (a list, message, or reminder) and help your child see how writing helps us remember and do things.
What you'll need
Essentials
- paper or a small notepad
- a pen for you (adult writing)
- 3–5 familiar household items (e.g., spoon, sock, apple, toy car, cup)
Nice to have
- a small bag or basket for collecting items
- stickers for “ticking off” items
- a fridge magnet or tape to display the list
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 own preferences and interests.Heart· 22mo–3y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneUses mark-making toolsBody· 22mo–2.8y· core· Steps 2, 3, 4
- MilestoneTalks about own interests and ideasMind· 4y–5y· core· Step 4
- MilestoneCan select and use activities and resources with help.Heart· 22mo–3y· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneShows object-function knowledgeMind· 2.7y–5y· stretch· Step 3
What it practices
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Model writing for a purpose, e.g. a shopping list, message for parents, or reminder for ourselves.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)