The EYFS & Learning For Children

Development Matters in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)

This is a non-statutory guidance material which supports nursery practitioners in implementing the statutory requirements of the EYFS.

We know that children develop quickly in the early years and it is our aim to do everything we can to give each child the very best possible start in life.

Children have a right, as detailed in the National Convention on the Rights of the Child, to provision which enables them to develop their own personalities irrespective of their talents and abilities and irrespective of ethnicity, culture or religion their home language, family background, learning disabilities, disabilities or gender.

Each child is unique therefore it is important for us to respond to this individuality when we are planning for their learning. We use close observations, and discussions with parents to identify what they can do and how we can extend and challenge their understanding to ensure every child is making progress.

The EYFS is a detailed document that identifies how to observe a child learning, what the adults can do to extend learning and what adults can do to provide a stimulating age appropriate curriculum.

There are 3 Prime Areas of Development which are fundamental, work together and support all other areas.

Personal Social and Emotional Development–

Making relationships

Self confidence

Managing Feelings and Behaviour

Physical Development –

Moving and Handling

Health and Self Care

Communication and Language –

Listening and Attention

Understanding

Speaking

The more Specific Areas include skills and knowledge for children to participate successfully in society

Literacy – Reading and Writing

Mathematics – Numbers Shape space and Measure

Understanding the World – People and communities The World Technology

Expressive Arts and Design – Exploring and using media and materials Being Imaginative

You can download your free copy of this document from www.foundationyears.org.uk/early-years-foundation-stage-2012