Activity
I Can Choose Board
Children use a simple choice board to pick an activity, gather what they need, and begin on their own, building initiative and independence.
Ages 18–60 months
Supports this milestone
- demonstrates emerging initiative in interactions, experiences, and explorations. — Head Start ELOF
- demonstrates initiative and independence. — Head Start ELOF
Materials
- A board or pocket chart with picture cards of available activities
- Low, open shelves holding the materials for each choice
Steps
- Show the choice board and name each picture option together.
- Invite a child to point to or take the card for what they want to do.
- Encourage the child to gather the materials that choice needs.
- Step back and let the child begin on their own, offering help only if asked.
- Afterward, talk about the choice the child made and how they started it.
Variations
- Add a "what's next" pocket so a child can plan a second activity.
- For a group, let each child place a name tag under their chosen activity.
Differentiation
- For toddlers, offer just two clear choices with real objects instead of cards.
- For older children, invite them to add a new choice they think of themselves.
Accessibility
- Use photos or real objects so every child can choose without reading.
- Place the board and shelves at a height reachable from a seated position.
Safety
- Ensure all reachable materials are child-safe for independent use.
Practices these skills
Evidence
- Developmentally Appropriate Practice in Early Childhood Programs (4th ed.) — National Association for the Education of Young Children · 2022 · National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)
Early Atlas