Photo Book: My Day
To develop understanding of narrative sequence and personal identity through personalised photo books.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Literacy
- Learning area: Literacy
- Level: EYFS Birth-2
Objectives
- Shows recognition of self in photos
- Points to known people
- Turns pages with interest
- Vocalises in response to familiar photos
Materials
- Laminated photos of daily routine
- Ring binder or photo album
- Labels with simple captions
- Cosy reading space
Instructions
Create a simple laminated photo book showing the baby's day: arriving at nursery, playing, snack time, nappy change, sleeping, going home. Include real photos of the baby and their key person.
Share the book regularly: 'Look — that's YOU! You're arriving at nursery. Mummy brings you in. Then what happens? You play! There you are playing with the bricks!'
The book tells a true story with the baby as protagonist. This is the most motivating text any baby will ever encounter — a book about themselves.
Use simple past tense consistently: 'You ate your snack. You played outside. You had a sleep.' This verb tense is the language of narrative — embedding it early through personal experience.
Add new photos as the baby grows and routines change. The book becomes a growing record and a bridge between home and setting.
Encourage families to create similar books for home. 'We made a book about Amira's day at nursery — would you like to make one about her day at home too?' This connects literacy across environments.