3.3y–5y12 minArtSelf-careChore time
Tools & Materials Practice: Safe, Steady, Successful
A short, repeatable practice loop where you explicitly teach safe handling of everyday tools/materials and give your child multiple quick chances to practise with support.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a tray or baking sheet (tool ‘parking’ area)
- paper
- crayons or thick markers
- child-safe scissors (or paper to tear if scissors are not suitable)
Nice to have
- tape or glue stick
- a small sponge or cloth (for wiping hands/table)
- a small cup or container (to hold tools)
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 tools and equipment safelyHeart· 2.5y–4.2y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneControls tools effectivelyBody· 3.3y–5y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneHandles varied tools with controlBody· 3.3y–5y· stretch· Step 2
- MilestoneUses simple tools and techniques competently and appropriately.Body· 3.3y–5y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneShows understanding of how to transport and store equipment safely.Mind· 3.3y–5y· stretch· Steps 1, 4
- MilestoneFollows adult safety guidanceHeart· 2.5y–4y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneUses scissors safelyBody· 3y–4y· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneUses child scissorsBody· 2.9y–5y· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneCuts materials with scissorsBody· 4y–5y· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneFollows instructions with several steps or actionsMind· 3.3y–4y· core· Step 4
- MilestoneFollows ordered multi-step directionsMind· 4y–5.6y· core· Step 4
What it practices
- Shows increasing control over an object in pushing, patting, throwing, catching or kicking it.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Negotiates space successfully when playing racing and chasing games with other children, adjusting speed or changing direction to avoid obstacles.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Teach children skills of how to use tools and materials effectively and safely and give them opportunities to practise them.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)