Your Body is Private
Infants build early awareness of body and routine through repetition and sensory input. 'Your Body is Private' lays groundwork for future health habits.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Health, Safety and Hygiene
- Learning area: Understanding the World
- Level: EYFS Birth-2
Objectives
- Respond to caregiver voice
- Visually track body images
- Explore textures
- Begin associating routines with safety and hygiene
Instructions
Materials
- Soft, life-sized baby dolls with removable clothing.
- A variety of clean, soft fabrics like fleece, cotton, and silk.
- A full-length unbreakable mirror mounted at floor level.
- A set of laminated photos showing infants being dressed and bathed.
- A calm, quiet corner with floor mats for individual interaction.
Learning Objectives
- Demonstrate recognition of their own reflection in the mirror.
- Respond to the teacher naming specific body parts during care routines.
- Develop trust through consistent and respectful physical interactions.
- Observe the teacher modelling appropriate boundaries during dressing.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Begin by gathering one or two infants in the quiet corner to ensure focused, one-on-one attention.
2. Place the infants in front of the floor mirror and gently point to their reflection while naming their body parts.
3. Use a soft, calm voice to narrate actions such as touching a hand or patting a tummy to establish a positive connection to the body.
4. Introduce the baby doll and demonstrate the act of dressing and undressing it using the soft fabrics.
5. Narrate the process clearly, saying things like, I am putting the shirt on the baby to keep them warm and safe.
6. Allow the infants to touch the fabrics and the doll to encourage sensory exploration of textures.
7. During routine nappy changes or clothing adjustments, narrate your actions to the infant before touching them.
8. Say, I am going to lift your legs now to change your nappy, giving the infant a moment to process the upcoming physical contact.
9. Maintain a gentle and respectful tone throughout all physical care to model that their body is respected and private.
10. Conclude the session by cuddling the infants to reinforce a sense of security and physical comfort.
Educator Tip
The key to this age group is consistent narration during daily care routines. By verbalizing every touch before it happens, you build a foundation of body autonomy and trust that serves as the basis for future safety lessons.
Assessment
- Observe if the infant shows signs of anticipation or comfort when the teacher narrates a physical action.
- Record whether the infant engages with their reflection in the mirror.
- Note if the infant shows interest in the doll or the fabrics during the demonstration.
Educator tip
Keep stimulation low; follow infant cues; sanitize props; avoid small parts.
Assessment
Observe and note: sustained engagement, sensory responses, early vocalisations, and attachment behaviours. Document using the Characteristics of Effective Learning framework (Playing and Exploring). Observe gaze, sensory response, and regulation.