ECI Kickstart

The Big Five

Six foundational Roost Originals ʳᵒ designed to support language, play, and conversation.

With so many toys, activities, and games available, knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. We created the Big Five as a simple, thoughtful starting point for parents and caregivers who want to engage meaningfully without the noise.

These five picks reflect our belief in quality over quantity. By limiting choices, we help reduce overwhelm, anxiousness, and dysregulation for both adults and children. Each resource is versatile, play based, and supports multiple communication and interaction goals, while still being genuinely fun.

Visit the Many ways to play tab for ideas on how to extend each activity and deepen engagement. Our goal is to help you make the most of the often limited time you have, without needing more stuff to do it.

There is no set order or schedule. Start with what feels manageable, repeat favourites, and adapt activities to suit your child and your routine.

ECI, or Early Childhood Intervention, supports children’s development through simple, practical activities that fit into everyday life. It focuses on building skills through play, routines, and meaningful interaction rather than formal therapy sessions alone.

ECI can support any child and family. While it is often introduced when a child needs a little extra support, it is just as valuable as a proactive foundation for learning, communication, and emotional development. The strategies are designed to be flexible, accessible, and easy for parents and caregivers to use at home, regardless of experience or background.

No. ECI focuses on supporting development, not labels. These resources can be used whether you have a formal diagnosis, professional guidance, or simply want to support your child with intention.

Build on 'The Big Five'

We have curated a small selection of optional resources to support The Big Five.
Some you may already own, others you might come back to later. Take what works for you.