8mo–20mo10 minReadingStory timeFamily time
Chug-Chug Story Sounds
A short, book-based listening game where the adult highlights and contrasts sounds (in pictures and real life) to support attention, listening, and early understanding.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a sturdy picture book (any theme; vehicles/animals work well)
Nice to have
- a small toy vehicle (e.g., toy car/tractor)
- a blanket or cushion for cozy reading
- a window or doorway to listen for outside sounds
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
- MilestoneRecognizes familiar environmental soundsMind· 12mo–2y· core
- MilestoneTakes turns making soundsHeart· 4mo–8mo· stretch· Step 4
- MilestoneTurns toward and locates a soundMind· 1mo–11mo· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneOrients toward named objectMind· 10mo–18mo· stretch
- MilestoneResponds to a speaking personHeart· 0mo–14mo· core· Step 3
- MilestonePlays simple back-and-forth gamesHeart· 6mo–14mo· core· Step 4
What it practices
- Concentrates intently on an object or activity of own choosing for short periods.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Pays attention to dominant stimulus – easily distracted by noises or other people talking.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Has a strong exploratory impulse.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Listens to and enjoys rhythmic patterns in rhymes and stories.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Talk about the different sounds they hear, such as a tractor’s “chug chug” while sharing a book.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)