16mo–2.2y9 minFree playFamily timeSelf-care
Stop, Check, Help: Safe Stretching + Careful Hands
A safety-first routine where the adult stays alert to over-stretching and risky climbing, and teaches a simple ‘stop-check-help’ pattern while your child practises page turning and supervised pouring at safe heights.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a clear floor space (remove trip hazards)
- one sturdy board/picture book
- a low, stable surface (floor, low table, or firm cushion)
- two unbreakable containers (bowls or tubs)
- a child-safe cup and a small jug/cup for pouring (small amount of water)
- towel for spills
Nice to have
- dry pouring alternative (large pasta shapes) if water is not suitable (close supervision)
- painter’s tape or a scarf to mark a simple boundary line
Movement level: mild
What you'll do
The 4-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
- MilestoneResponds to a few appropriate boundaries, with encouragement and support.Heart· 8mo–20mo· core· Step 2
- MilestoneIndependent page turningBody· 10mo–22mo· core
- MilestoneEnjoys filling and emptying containers.Mind· 8mo–20mo· stretch· Step 4
- MilestoneLooks at books with a familiar personMind· 10mo–2y· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneUses mark-making toolsBody· 22mo–2.8y· stretch
What it practices
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Be alert to the safety of children, particularly those who might overstretch themselves.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)