8mo–20mo8 minFree playSelf-careFamily time
Two Boundaries, Brave Try
A short practice where you demonstrate two clear, consistent boundaries and pair them with reasonable but slightly challenging expectations, helping your child build early self-regulation through predictable limits and warm support.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a small basket/box
- 5–10 safe items to put in (blocks, socks, soft balls, large lids)
Nice to have
- masking tape (to mark a simple 'stop line')
- a comfort item (for quick calming)
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
- MilestoneResponds to a few appropriate boundaries, with encouragement and support.Heart· 8mo–20mo· core· Step 1
- MilestoneCalms with adult helpHeart· 20mo–3.2y· stretch
- MilestoneFollows visually supported requestsMind· 12mo–15mo· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneProtests frustration or interruptionHeart· 8mo–2y· core
- MilestonePuts object into containerBody· 9mo–12mo· core· Step 1
- MilestoneSeeks caregiver comfortHeart· 0mo–12mo· stretch
What it practices
- Growing sense of will and determination may result in feelings of anger and frustration which are difficult to handle, e.g. may have tantrums.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Begins to learn that some things are theirs, some things are shared, and some things belong to other people.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Responds to a few appropriate boundaries, with encouragement and support.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Demonstrate clear and consistent boundaries and reasonable yet challenging expectations.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)