16mo–2.2y10 minReadingQuiet timeFamily time
Story Sack Take-Home: Read, Talk, Play
Make a simple story sack (book + 2–3 objects) and use a predictable routine (choose → read → pause → act it out) to encourage your child’s enjoyment of books and early story talk at home.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a small bag (tote bag/pillowcase) to be the ‘story sack’
- 1 sturdy picture book or board book
- 2–3 simple objects/toys linked to the book (e.g., spoon, toy animal, small car, soft toy)
Nice to have
- a small blanket/cushion for a cosy reading spot
- paper and crayons (for a quick scribble picture after)
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
- MilestoneUses different types of everyday words (nouns, verbs and adjectives, e.g. banana, go, sleep, hot).Mind· 8mo–20mo· stretch· Step 4
- MilestoneCompletes Familiar Story or Rhyme PhrasesMind· 20mo–2.7y· core· Steps 2, 4
- MilestoneSimple pretend playMind· 14mo–2.2y· core· Step 3
- MilestoneCopies sounds or wordsMind· 10mo–20mo· core· Steps 2, 3, 4
- MilestoneCopies simple gestures or actionsMind· 6mo–2.3y· core· Step 3
- MilestoneCopies familiar phrasesMind· 12mo–23mo· stretch· Step 2
- MilestoneExpresses own preferences and interests.Heart· 22mo–3y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneCan select and use activities and resources with help.Heart· 22mo–3y· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneUnderstands simple questionsMind· 14mo–2.2y· stretch· Step 1
What it practices
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Provide story sacks for parents to take them home to encourage use of books and talk about stories.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)