2.5y–4.2y12 minFree playSocial playFamily time
Role-Play Theme Box
Use simple household props to set up a role-play theme, then coach your child to practise taking turns, coping with changes, and using words to manage feelings during pretend play.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a few household props for pretend play (e.g., cups, spoon, notepad, old wallet, phone case, bandage)
- a box or bag (to be the ‘theme box’)
- paper and a pen/crayon
Nice to have
- a scarf/hat (optional, for costumes)
- a soft toy or doll (optional, to be a ‘customer/patient’)
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
- MilestoneTakes turns in simple games with adult supportHeart· 20mo–3.3y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneWaits for needs or turnsHeart· 2.5y–5y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneAdjusts to stated expectationsHeart· 2.5y–3.7y· core
- MilestoneExpresses feelings through words or actionsHeart· 22mo–3y· core
- MilestoneIndependently restrains impulsesHeart· 4y–6y· stretch· Step 2
- MilestoneFollows instructions with several steps or actionsMind· 3.3y–4y· core· Step 4
- MilestoneStops when instructedHeart· 22mo–3y· core· Step 4
- MilestoneHelps with simple household tasksHeart· 18mo–3y· core· Step 4
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Provide materials for a variety of role play themes.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)