16mo–2.2y8 minSelf-careOutdoorFamily time
Sleeve Helper: Arm-In Adventure
A short, playful dressing routine where you notices and encourages small efforts (especially offering an arm for a sleeve) so your child builds confidence and independence in self-care.
What you'll need
Essentials
- your child’s coat, cardigan, or jumper with sleeves
- a safe place to sit (floor, bed edge, or sturdy chair)
Nice to have
- a mirror (so your child can see themselves)
- a small toy to hold as a ‘helper’ while dressing
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
- MilestoneBegins self-care independenceBody· 22mo–3y· core
- MilestoneCooperates with dressingBody· 14mo–18mo· core· Steps 1, 2
- MilestoneSupported routine participationMind· 8mo–20mo· core· Steps 1, 2
- MilestoneHelps manage clothingBody· 21mo–3y· core
- MilestoneMatches words in routinesMind· 15mo–2y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneParticipates in hygiene routinesBody· 15mo–2.3y· core· Step 3
What it practices
- Develops own likes and dislikes in food and drink.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Willing to try new food textures and tastes.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Holds cup with both hands and drinks without much spilling.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Clearly communicates wet or soiled nappy or pants.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Shows some awareness of bladder and bowel urges.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Shows awareness of what a potty or toilet is used for.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Shows a desire to help with dressing/undressing and hygiene routines.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Gradually able to engage in pretend play with toys (supports child to understand their own thinking may be different from others).Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Demonstrates sense of self as an individual, e.g. wants to do things independently, says “No” to adult.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Encourage efforts such as when a young child offers their arm to put in a coat sleeve.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)