16mo–2.2y10 minReadingStory timeQuiet time
Talk-Back Picture Book Time
A 10-minute shared reading routine that supports toddlers’ comprehension by encouraging responses, noticing interests, and following their lead during picture books and stories.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a picture book (any toddler-safe book)
Nice to have
- a blanket or cushion for a cosy reading spot
- a small soft toy to be the 'listening buddy'
Movement level: false
What you'll do
The 4-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
- MilestoneUnderstands simple questionsMind· 14mo–2.2y· stretch· Step 2
- MilestoneAttends to Shared Book ReadingMind· 18mo–2.7y· core
- MilestoneAttends to book contentMind· 18mo–2.6y· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneAnswers story questionsMind· 2.1y–3.1y· stretch· Step 2
- MilestoneLooks at books with a familiar personMind· 10mo–2y· core· Steps 1, 3
- MilestoneExpresses own preferences and interests.Heart· 22mo–3y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneCan select and use activities and resources with help.Heart· 22mo–3y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneCopies familiar phrasesMind· 12mo–23mo· core· Step 4
- MilestoneCopies heard wordsMind· 8mo–20mo· core· Step 4
- MilestoneIndependent page turningBody· 10mo–22mo· core· Step 3
- MilestoneCompletes Familiar Story or Rhyme PhrasesMind· 20mo–2.7y· stretch
What it practices
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Encourage and support children’s responses to picture books and stories you read with them.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)