22mo–3y10 minOutdoorFamily timeChore time
Signs & Symbols Spotter
A quick symbol-hunt where you and your child notice marks, signs, and labels around you and talk about what they mean, including that writing can look different in other scripts.
What you'll need
Essentials
- 2–4 familiar household items with labels (e.g., cereal box, toothpaste, shampoo)
- paper or a small notebook
- a pen for you (adult writing)
Nice to have
- sticky notes or small pieces of paper tape
- a phone to take a quick photo of a sign (optional)
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 1
- MilestoneGives meaning to own drawings or marksMind· 2.8y–3.8y· core· Step 4
- MilestoneDistinguishes between the different marks they make.Mind· 22mo–3y· stretch· Step 4
- MilestoneUses mark-making toolsBody· 22mo–2.8y· core· Step 4
- MilestonePoints and gazes to share attentionHeart· 8mo–2y· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneUnderstands simple questionsMind· 14mo–2.2y· core· Step 2
What it practices
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Draw attention to marks, signs and symbols in the environment and talk about what they represent. Ensure this involves recognition of English and other relevant scripts.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)