8mo–20mo7 minReadingQuiet timeFamily time
Tiny Book Explorer: Touch, Turn, and Point
A short, cosy routine where your child handles a sturdy book while you gently draw attention to pictures, supporting early interest in books and shared attention.
What you'll need
Essentials
- 1–2 sturdy board books (or a baby-safe picture book)
- a comfortable spot (lap, sofa, or blanket on the floor)
Nice to have
- a soft toy to 'find' in the pictures
- a small mirror (optional, for face pictures)
Movement level: false
What you'll do
The 3-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
- MilestoneExplores and handles booksMind· 6mo–12mo· core· Step 1
- MilestoneDeveloping the ability to follow others’ body language, including pointing and gesture.Mind· 10mo–15mo· core· Step 2
- MilestoneAttends to book contentMind· 18mo–2.6y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneIndependent page turningBody· 10mo–22mo· core· Step 1
- MilestoneTakes turns making soundsHeart· 4mo–8mo· core· Step 3
- MilestoneUnderstands simple questionsMind· 14mo–2.2y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneCopies sounds or wordsMind· 10mo–20mo· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneImitates animal or environmental soundsMind· 18mo–2.3y· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneUses objects functionallyMind· 10mo–15mo· core· Step 1
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Let children handle books and draw their attention to pictures.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)