0mo–11mo8 minQuiet timeMealtimeSelf-care
Special Person Cue Map
A short key-person routine to learn your child’s signals and preferences, respond consistently, and strengthen secure connection through predictable care.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a comfortable, safe place to hold or sit with your child
- a small notebook/paper and pen
Nice to have
- a familiar comfort item you already use (blanket/soft toy)
- a simple object to look at together (spoon, scarf, high-contrast cloth)
Movement level: false
What you'll do
The 3-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
- MilestoneRecognizes familiar caregiverHeart· 0mo–10mo· core
- MilestoneSeeks caregiver comfortHeart· 0mo–12mo· core
- MilestoneCalms with caregiver soothingHeart· 0mo–3mo· core· Step 2
- MilestoneResponds to a speaking personHeart· 0mo–14mo· stretch
- MilestoneResponds to own nameMind· 6mo–10mo· stretch· Step 1
What it practices
- Recognises and is most responsive to main carer’s voice: face brightens, activity increases when familiar carer appears.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Responds when talked to, for example, moves arms and legs, changes facial expression, moves body and makes mouth movements.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Enjoys the company of others and seeks contact with others from birth.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Make sure babies have their own special person in the setting, who knows them really well and understands their wants and needs.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)