22mo–3y10 minFree playFamily time
Statement-First Play Talk
A playtime communication style that uses lots of short, warm statements (and only occasional open questions) so your child has space to respond, use gestures or words, and lead the interaction.
What you'll need
Essentials
- 2–3 simple toys your child likes (e.g., cars, blocks, animals, dolls)
Nice to have
- a small basket/box for ‘put in / take out’ play
- a small soft toy (for turn-taking)
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
- MilestoneBack and forth conversationMind· 2.3y–3y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneHolds a conversation, jumping from topic to topic.Mind· 22mo–3y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneCombines two wordsMind· 14mo–3y· core
- MilestoneAnswers simple open questionsMind· 2.3y–3.3y· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneExpresses feelings through words or actionsHeart· 22mo–3y· stretch· Step 4
- MilestoneSeeks out others to share experiences.Heart· 14mo–2.2y· core· Step 4
- MilestoneNames familiar referentsMind· 15mo–2.3y· core
- MilestoneUnderstands simple questionsMind· 14mo–2.2y· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneListens to others one to one or in small groups, when conversation interests them.Mind· 2.5y–4.2y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneTwo-channelled attention – can listen and do for short span.Mind· 2.5y–4.2y· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneUses three- to five-word sentencesMind· 2y–4y· stretch
What it practices
- Uses language as a powerful means of widening contacts, sharing feelings, experiences and thoughts.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Holds a conversation, jumping from topic to topic.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Uses gestures, sometimes with limited talk, e.g. reaches toward toy, saying ‘I have it’.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Use a lot of statements and fewer questions. When you do ask a question, use an open question with many possible answers.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)