22mo–3y9 minArtFamily time
Tell Me About It
A supportive conversation routine where the parent shows curiosity about the child’s creative process (what they’re making, what it means), using simple questions and reflections to deepen imaginative expression.
What you'll need
Essentials
- paper or cardboard
- a crayon or pencil
Nice to have
- stickers or tape
- a small box (to decorate)
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
- MilestoneGives meaning to own drawings or marksMind· 2.8y–3.8y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneAnswers simple open questionsMind· 2.3y–3.3y· stretch· Step 2
- MilestoneUses mark-making toolsBody· 22mo–2.8y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneExpresses own preferences and interests.Heart· 22mo–3y· core· Step 3
- MilestoneUses symbolic substitution (objects and words) in playMind· 20mo–3y· core
- MilestoneUnderstands simple questionsMind· 14mo–2.2y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneSeeks out others to share experiences.Heart· 14mo–2.2y· stretch· Step 4
- MilestoneStays focused during activityMind· 2.5y–3y· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneScribbles or makes marksBody· 12mo–22mo· core· Step 1
- MilestoneSimple pretend playMind· 14mo–2.2y· stretch
What it practices
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Be interested in the children’s creative processes and talk to them about what they mean to them.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)