2.5y–4.2y12 minReadingStory timeSocial play
Script Spotter: Two-Language Pages
A short, inclusive reading routine using a dual-language text (or two language examples) to raise awareness of different scripts, while still engaging with story meaning through prediction and joining in.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a dual-language book OR any two examples of writing in different languages (e.g., a bilingual leaflet/menu, packaging, or a borrowed library book)
- a comfy reading spot
Nice to have
- paper and marker (to copy one symbol/letter shape together)
- a small magnifying glass or 'detective' prop (optional, just for fun)
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
- MilestoneNotices detailed features of objects in their environment.Mind· 22mo–3y· stretch· Step 2
- MilestoneMatches identical objects and picturesMind· 15mo–2.5y· core· Step 2
- MilestonePredicts what happens nextMind· 3y–5y· core· Step 4
- MilestonePredicts what happens nextMind· 2.8y–3.6y· core· Step 4
- MilestoneBeginning to be aware of the way stories are structured.Mind· 2.5y–4.2y· core· Step 4
- MilestoneListens and joins inMind· 2.3y–3.3y· stretch
- MilestoneCompletes Familiar Story or Rhyme PhrasesMind· 20mo–2.7y· core· Step 3
- MilestoneAttends to book contentMind· 18mo–2.6y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneAttends to Shared Book ReadingMind· 18mo–2.7y· stretch· Step 3
What it practices
- Listens to and joins in with stories and poems, one-to-one and also in small groups.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
- Suggests how the story might end.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Provide dual language books and read them with all children, to raise awareness of different scripts. Try to match dual language books to languages spoken by families in the setting.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)