2.5y–4.2y12 minFamily timeChore timeReading
Recipe Reader, Step Helper
A hands-on activity using simple non-fiction instructions (a very basic snack recipe) to practice listening for meaning, following steps, and using sequencing language.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a simple snack item (e.g., banana, toast, yogurt)
- a spoon or butter knife (child-safe, supervised)
- a small plate or bowl
- paper and pen (or a phone note) for 3 simple steps
Nice to have
- stickers or buttons to 'tick off' steps
- a simple picture recipe from a book or leaflet (if you have one)
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
What it practices
- Beginning to be aware of the way stories are structured.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Joins in with repeated refrains and anticipates key events and phrases in rhymes and stories.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Listens to and joins in with stories and poems, one-to-one and also in small groups.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Introduce children to books and other materials that provide information or instructions. Carry out activities using instructions, such as reading a recipe to make a cake.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)