3.3y–5y10 minArtDevelopmental playSocial play
Share-Ready Tool Station: Create Without Waiting
A short set-up-and-make routine where you provide “two-of-each” simple tools so your child can share with you (or another child) without long waits. The focus is safe, controlled fine-motor tool use while keeping enjoyment high.
What you'll need
Essentials
- paper or cardboard scrap
- two sets of crayons/markers (or a shared pot with plenty of choices)
- two glue sticks OR tape (or two small bowls for paper pieces to stick)
- a tray or table space with two “parking spots”
- scrap paper pieces (ripped squares/strips)
Nice to have
- stickers
- a simple timer (phone) for quick swaps
- child-safe scissors (only if already used safely with supervision)
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
- MilestoneControls tools effectivelyBody· 3.3y–5y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneUses simple tools and techniques competently and appropriately.Body· 3.3y–5y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneChanges materials with simple toolsBody· 3.3y–5y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneUses tools and equipment safelyHeart· 2.5y–4.2y· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneAdjusts to stated expectationsHeart· 2.5y–3.7y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneShows understanding of how to transport and store equipment safely.Mind· 3.3y–5y· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneUses finger-thumb pencil graspBody· 2.8y–4y· core
- MilestoneUses child scissorsBody· 2.9y–5y· core
What it practices
- Handles tools, objects, construction and malleable materials safely and with increasing control.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Uses simple tools to effect changes to materials.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- They handle equipment and tools effectively, including pencils for writing.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Provide sufficient equipment for children to share, so that waiting to take turns does not spoil enjoyment.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)