16mo–2.2y10 minFree playFamily timeOutdoor
Tape Track Switch-Up
A quick, playful floor activity where you and your child make simple 'road' and 'rail' routes using tape/strings, then change the layout to notice 'same/different' paths and simple repeating route patterns (straight, curve, straight).
What you'll need
Essentials
- masking tape or painter's tape (or a scarf/rope/string as an alternative)
- a clear floor space (or a patio/sidewalk space with chalk instead of tape)
- 2–4 small toys that can travel (cars, animals, blocks to push)
Nice to have
- paper strips or cereal-box cardboard strips (for 'rails' or 'bridges')
- a cushion or cardboard box (to make a 'tunnel')
- a small tray/bowl (to hold the toys and reduce distractions)
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
What it practices
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Help young children to create different arrangements in the layout of road and rail tracks.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)