22mo–3y8 minFamily timeQuiet timeDevelopmental play
Reassure & Share: Concern Check-In
A short routine where you notices one ‘uncertain’ moment, reassures your child with simple language and closeness, then exchanges a clear 3-line update with another caregiver or key person so adults feel reassured and the child gets consistent support.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a phone notes app or small notepad and pen
- a comfort item for your child (blanket, muslin, or soft toy)
- a calm spot where you can stay close
Nice to have
- a photo of a familiar adult/place (e.g., nursery door, key person photo) to point to (optional)
Movement level: false
What you'll do
The 4-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
What it practices
- Beginning to recognise danger and seeks support of significant adults for help.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Clearly communicates their need for potty or toilet.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Helps with clothing, e.g. puts on hat, unzips zipper on jacket, takes off unbuttoned shirt.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Drinks well without spilling.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Feeds self competently with spoon.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Seek and exchange information with parents about young children’s concerns, so that they can be reassured if they feel uncertain.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)