Doorstep Watch
What you need
- the front doorstep or a step outside
- a cushion to sit on
How to do it
- Sit together on the doorstep or a step outside with them on your lap or beside you.
- Watch what goes by: a bird, a car, a dog, a neighbour.
- Name each thing quietly and wave at anyone who waves back.
- Wait and see what comes next.
Why it matters
Sitting still and watching the street go by gives them lots to look at without anything to do.
What they're learning
- Watching
- Following a car or a bird with their eyes is careful looking.
- Naming things
- Car, bird, dog: each one gets a word.
- Waving hello
- A wave to a neighbour, and sometimes one back.
What to look for
Notice them pointing at something and looking back at you to name it.
A tip
Keep the front gate shut and stay sitting with them; the step is for watching, not wandering.
Make it easier or harder
Easier: just watch from the window if it's too cold to sit out
Harder: count the cars, or listen for one sound, like a bird
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