The areas of learning and development
The learning and development requirements in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
1.1 This section sets out what childminders / providers must do, working in partnership with parents and/or carers, to promote the learning and development of all children in their care, and to ensure their entire early years’ experience contributes positively to their brain development and readiness for Key Stage 1. The learning and development requirements are informed by the best available evidence on how children learn. They also reflect the broad range of skills, knowledge and attitudes children need as foundations for life now and in the future. Childminders / early years providers must guide the development of children’s capabilities to help ensure that children in their care will fully benefit from future opportunities.
1.2 The EYFS learning and development requirements for childminders / group and school-based providers are made up of the seven areas of learning and development, as set out in the educational programmes.
1.3 In reception year, teachers and practitioners will also utilise the early learning goals which summarise the knowledge, skills and understanding that all young children should have gained by the end of the EYFS.
The areas of learning and development
1.3/1.4 There are seven areas of learning and development that set out what childminders / providers must teach the children in their settings. All areas of learning and development are important and inter-connected.
1.4/1.5 Three prime areas are particularly important for learning and forming relationships. They build a foundation for children to thrive and provide the basis for learning in all areas.
These are the prime areas:
• Communication and language
• Physical development
• Personal, social and emotional development
1.5/1.6 Childminders /providers must also support children in four specific areas, which help strengthen and develop the three prime areas, and ignite children’s curiosity and enthusiasm.
The specific areas are:
• Literacy
• Mathematics
• Understanding the world
• Expressive arts and design
Additional information, resources and support articles for childminders and practitioners working with children aged 0-5 can be found at: Help for early years providers : Areas of learning (education.gov.uk)