The EYFS Framework Explained

September marks a fresh start for many families. Some toddlers and young children will be starting nursery for the very first time, while others are returning after the summer break. Whether your child is taking their first steps into nursery life or continuing their journey, you may be wondering what they will be doing each day and how these activities will help them grow. 

At Pendley Day Nursery, everything we do is guided by the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework – the national standard for learning, development and care for children from birth to five years old. It ensures children learn through a mix of structured activities, free play and daily routines, all tailored to their age and stage of development. 

What is the EYFS?

The EYFS sets out seven key areas of learning and development, which are split into:

• Prime areas – communication and language, physical development, and personal, social and emotional development.
• Specific areas – literacy, mathematics, understanding the world, and expressive arts and design. 

These areas work together to give children a well-rounded start in life, building the skills and confidence they need for school and beyond. 

How this works at Pendley Day Nursery

Our daily activities are designed to be fun and engaging while meeting the goals of the EYFS. For example:

• Storytime and singing develop listening skills, vocabulary and imagination.
• Outdoor play supports physical health, coordination and social interaction.
• Creative activities such as painting, building and role play encourage problem-solving, self-expression and teamwork.
• Exploring nature and the local environment builds curiosity and understanding of the world around them.

Children are encouraged to follow their interests, which helps them to stay motivated and enjoy learning. 

The benefits for your child

By following the EYFS, we can track your child’s progress, celebrate their achievements and support them in areas where they may need more help. This approach helps each child to become a confident communicator, an eager learner and a kind, and thoughtful friend – all essential skills for school readiness and lifelong learning. 

You might also be interested in a previous blog of ours entitled: How Quality Childcare Shapes a Child’s Future Learning and Development. 

For more advice and support for your child’s learning and development, our team at Pendley Day Nursery is always here to help! Please call us on: 01442 967140 or drop us an email to: info@pendleydaynursery.com. You’ll also find us on Facebook.