Get your resources ready
Download your files and open them on your device. Print the cards or pages you’d like to keep nearby—you don’t need to print everything.
HOW IT WORKS
Simple support for everyday play
Start small. Make it part of your day.
From choosing a play idea to knowing when to help, the IndieSteps System gives you practical tools to support your child’s play at their own pace.
ONE STEP AT A TIME
A simple way to move from
getting started to stepping back.
Find a starting point that fits
Start with Your Child’s First Steps Toward Independent Play. Use the guide to consider what your child already does during play, where they need support, and which small step to try first.
Set up one invitation to play
Choose one of the 30 Ready-to-Play Cards based on your child’s interests. Check the accompanying Parent Guide for instructions, gather suitable materials, and help your child begin.
Keep it simple. A familiar activity is worth returning to.
Notice when to help
Watch how your child responds. They may need you close by, a little help getting past a difficulty, or time to try something themselves.
The Decision Tool helps you consider your response. Adjust your support as needed, while keeping supervision appropriate to your child and the activity.
Reflect on the experience
Use the Step-Back Progress Planner to note what interested your child, what helped, and what you might change.
Let those observations guide your next choice: repeat what worked, adjust the setup, or explore another idea.
KEEP IT FLEXIBLE
A little at a time
is enough to begin.
You don’t need to use every tool during every activity. Start with what feels useful, leave room for your child’s interests, and return to the resources as your needs change.
Use what helps today.You do not need to follow every step every time.
Repeat what works.A familiar play idea can be worth coming back to.
Adjust as your child changes.Support can look different from one day to the next.
YOUR NEXT SMALL STEP STARTS HERE
Explore the guide, activity cards,
planner, and decision tool.
All brought together in the IndieSteps System.
Get the Complete SystemSmall steps. Brighter tomorrows.