The prime areas
Three areas are particularly important for building a foundation for igniting children’s curiosity and enthusiasm for learning, forming relationships and thriving.
Personal, social and emotional development
Interact with peers and known adults, and develop positive self-image, sense of achievement, confidence and independence. Cooperate within small and large groups, developing an understanding of daily routines and behavioural expectations.
Communication and language
Develop listening, concentration, understanding and speaking within small and large group situations during story time, songs/rhymes, language games and conversations.
Physical development
Develop gross motor skills through playing, balancing, climbing, moving in a range of ways. Fine motor skills are promoted in manipulation, construction and mark-making activities. We also promote healthy eating, self-care and good hygiene.
The specific areas
Literacy
Developing an enjoyment of books, letter names and sounds with story time, word games and storytelling. Developing writing skills through mark making.
Mathematics
Developing number skills, counting, calculating, recognising shapes, space and measures through playing with shapes, construction, sequencing, counting and sorting.
Understanding the world
Developing children’s understanding of the world around them and their community/family, different occupations and differences between people. This is done through role play, dress-up, exploring objects, living things, sand and water play, celebrations and using technology toys.
Expressive arts and design
Providing children with opportunities to share thoughts, ideas and feelings through craft activities, messy play, malleable materials, singing, dancing, role play and musical instruments.