16mo–2.2y12 minSocial playFree play
Side-by-Side, Then Together
A step-by-step play routine that starts with comfortable parallel play and gently moves into cooperative play with a familiar adult, including rolling a ball back and forth and building together.
What you'll need
Essentials
- blocks or plastic cups
- soft ball (or a rolled-up sock)
Nice to have
- small basket or box
- blanket or mat
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
- MilestoneTakes turns in simple games with adult supportHeart· 20mo–3.3y· core· Step 2
- MilestonePlays alongside other childrenHeart· 10mo–18mo· core
- MilestoneShows interest in peer playHeart· 14mo–2y· core
- MilestoneStacks two blocksBody· 14mo–18mo· stretch· Step 2
- MilestoneFollows visually supported instructionsMind· 8mo–18mo· stretch· Step 2
- MilestoneClosely observes what animals, people and vehicles do.Mind· 8mo–20mo· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneExplores with caregiver as secure baseHeart· 10mo–20mo· stretch
What it practices
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Ensure there are opportunities for the child to play alongside others and play cooperative games with a familiar adult.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)