2.5y–4.2y9 minFamily timeQuiet timeSelf-care
Routine Switch Practice: Now & Next
Coach the adult to prepare your child for routine changes using a simple ‘now/next’ visual, rehearsal language (first/then), and plan-B choices to reduce stress and support flexible self-regulation.
What you'll need
Essentials
- paper (or the back of a cereal box) and a pen/crayon
- tape or sticky tack
Nice to have
- a phone timer (optional)
- 2–3 small objects as ‘routine markers’ (optional) (e.g., spoon, sock, toy car)
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
- MilestoneAdjusts to stated expectationsHeart· 2.5y–3.7y· stretch
- MilestoneCalms with adult helpHeart· 20mo–3.2y· core
- MilestoneSays what will happen nextMind· 2.5y–4y· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneExpresses own preferences and interests.Heart· 22mo–3y· core· Step 4
- MilestoneWaits for needs or turnsHeart· 2.5y–5y· stretch· Step 4
- MilestoneStops when instructedHeart· 22mo–3y· core· Step 3
- MilestoneIdentifies named picturesMind· 2y–3y· stretch· Step 1
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Prepare children for changes that may occur in the routine.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)