22mo–3y10 minSelf-careFamily timeOutdoor
Zipper Team: Try, Ask, Together
A dressing-time routine where you models asking for help and solving problems together, so your child experiences adults as supportive partners in learning.
What you'll need
Essentials
- your child’s jacket/cardigan with a zip or buttons
- a stable place to sit (floor, bed edge, or sturdy chair)
Nice to have
- a small mirror (so your child can see themselves)
- a small toy to ‘dress’ too
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
- MilestoneShows confidence in asking adults for help.Heart· 2.5y–4.2y· core· Steps 2, 4
- MilestoneBegins self-care independenceBody· 22mo–3y· core
- MilestoneGestures wants or needsMind· 10mo–2.3y· stretch· Step 2
- MilestoneTakes turns in simple games with adult supportHeart· 20mo–3.3y· core· Step 3
- MilestoneHelps manage clothingBody· 21mo–3y· core
- MilestoneCopies simple gestures or actionsMind· 6mo–2.3y· core· Step 3
- MilestoneParticipates in hygiene routinesBody· 15mo–2.3y· core· Step 1
What it practices
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Encourage children to see adults as a resource and as partners in their learning.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)