Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is how the Government and early years professionals describe the time in your child’s life between birth and age 5. It is a framework setting the standards for learning, development and care for children during this period. Nurseries, pre-schools, reception classes and childminders must follow the legal document called the EYFS Framework which can be accessed here.

You can ask for information about your child’s development at any time and there are two stages (the “progress check” at age 2, and again at age 5) when the professionals caring for your child must give you written information about how he or she is doing. The written summary of their progress at age 5 is called the EYFS Profile.

As a mum or dad, how can I help with my child’s learning?

All the activities that you do with your child at home are important in supporting their learning and development, and have a really long lasting effect on your child’s learning as they progress towards and through school. For example, talking, reading, singing nursery rhymes with your child or cooking and baking with them. More ideas can be found at the Early Home Learning website. Even when your child is very young and is not yet able to talk, you talking to them helps them to learn and understand new words and ideas.

Parents/carers often underestimate what they can do to support their child’s development. If you feel unsure of what to do at home to support your child’s learning, you can find out what is on offer at your local children’s centre. Many offer ‘messy play’ activities which you and your child can join in, and many of the activities they provide are free. Staff can also give you advice about the kinds of books or other activities your child might enjoy at different ages. They can give you ideas on how you can help your child learn.

Where can I go for further information?

You may want to find out what is on offer at your local children’s centre. Also visit the Foundation Years website for a range of resources and contacts.