—8 minFree playFamily timeSocial play
Secure Base Explore and Return
A gentle exploration routine where a toddler moves away from a familiar adult, watches another person, and returns for comfort when needed.
What you'll need
Essentials
- two familiar toys
- cushion or mat
Nice to have
- paper and crayon if useful for recording
Movement level: low
What you'll do
The 3-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
What it practices
- Seeks to gain attention in a variety of ways, drawing others into social interaction.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Builds relationships with special people.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Is wary of unfamiliar people.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Interacts with others and explores new situations when supported by familiar person.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Shows interest in the activities of others and responds differently to children and adults, e.g. may be more interested in watching children than adults or may pay more attention when children talk to them.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Plays alongside others.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Uses a familiar adult as a secure base from which to explore independently in new environments, e.g. ventures away to play and interact with others, but returns for a cuddle or reassurance if becomes anxious.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Is aware of others’ feelings, for example, looks concerned if hears crying or looks excited if hears a familiar happy voice.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Growing sense of will and determination may result in feelings of anger and frustration which are difficult to handle, e.g. may have tantrums.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Responds to a few appropriate boundaries, with encouragement and support.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Begins to learn that some things are theirs, some things are shared, and some things belong to other people.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE) — cross-aspect multi-target authored per DM2012 's See [other aspect] pattern