Cosy Blanket Peek-a-Boo
Peek-a-boo is one of the most important games of infancy, teaching object permanence and building trust in relationships. Playing with fall-coloured blankets connects this beloved game to the season while creating warm, cosy associations with autumn. The predictable pattern of hiding and revealing supports emotional regulation through joyful anticipation.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Autumn Festival
- Learning area: Socio-Emotional Learning
- Level: EYFS Birth-2
Objectives
- Experience joyful social interaction through peek-a-boo play
- Build understanding of object permanence
- Practise anticipation and delight in familiar game patterns
Materials
- Soft blankets in fall colours (orange, brown, red)
- Comfortable floor space
- Stuffed animals or dolls (optional)
Instructions
Gather soft blankets in warm fall colours. Create a comfortable space on the floor with pillows and cushions, invoking the cosy feeling of autumn.
With young infants, drape a blanket lightly over your own head: "Where did I go?" Pause dramatically, then pull it off: "Peek-a-boo! Here I am!" Repeat many times, building anticipation with longer pauses as the child's joy increases.
As children show understanding, gently place the blanket over their head: "Where is [child's name]?" Help them pull it off if needed: "There you are!" Celebrate with smiles and claps.
With toddlers, extend the game by hiding objects under blankets: "Where is the pumpkin? Can you find it?" Let them uncover hiding spots. Or hide together under a big blanket: "It's so cosy under here! We're hiding from the fall wind!"
Incorporate fall language throughout: "Let's hide under this orange blanket, like a pile of fall leaves!" or "Pull off the blanket like the wind blowing leaves away!"
End with quiet cuddling under blankets, creating a calm transition and positive emotional associations with the fall season.
Educator tip
Watch each child's response carefully. Some love the suspense of long pauses while others prefer quick reveals. Some may not enjoy having blankets over their own heads but love watching adults hide. Follow individual cues.
Assessment
Observe and note: sustained engagement, sensory responses, early vocalisations, and attachment behaviours. Document using the Characteristics of Effective Learning framework (Playing and Exploring). Document object permanence understanding, social engagement through eye contact and smiles, and comfort with anticipation and surprise.