3.3y–5y12 minSelf-careChore timeArt
Safe Hands, Safe Tools
A short, practical routine where you and your child agree simple safety rules and practise using everyday tools and materials safely and calmly.
What you'll need
Essentials
- paper and crayons/pencils
- child-safe scissors (or tearing paper if scissors are not suitable)
- a small container or tray (for holding materials)
Nice to have
- glue stick or tape
- a small basket/box for 'tool parking'
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
- MilestoneUses tools and equipment safelyHeart· 2.5y–4.2y· core· Steps 2, 3
- MilestoneShows understanding of how to transport and store equipment safely.Mind· 3.3y–5y· stretch· Steps 2, 3, 4
- MilestoneUses scissors safelyBody· 3y–4y· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneFollows instructions with several steps or actionsMind· 3.3y–4y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneExplains causesMind· 3.8y–4.6y· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneTalks about own interests and ideasMind· 4y–5y· stretch· Step 4
What it practices
- Negotiates space successfully when playing racing and chasing games with other children, adjusting speed or changing direction to avoid obstacles.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Shows increasing control over an object in pushing, patting, throwing, catching or kicking it.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Explain why safety is an important factor in handling tools, equipment and materials, and have sensible rules for everybody to follow.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)