Creative play is an exciting way for children to learn about the world around them. Young children acquire skills rather than being taught them. Imaginative and creative play develops children’s; emotional, social, physical, cognitive, speaking and listening skills. Children enjoy the play activities so much that they are not aware that they are learning so many important skills.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is a curriculum for children up to five years old. Ofsted registered childminders, nurseries, reception classes and preschools adhere to the EYFS guidelines. Educators plan activities to fulfil the learning objectives in six areas including social and physical development.
Everything a child learns in the first five years of their lives sets them up for future learning. The EYFS gives children the skills to learn and belong in the world around them. Investing in a child’s early education is investing in their future.
Watching children learn is the most exciting experience you can ever have. Babies start learning about the world before they are born. We call each stage of development at this age milestones. Children reach their milestones at different rates but all get there in the end. Walking, talking and dressing are very obvious achievements because they are easy to see.
Cognitive, social and emotional skills are just as important but are not celebrated in the same way. Ofsted registered childminders, nurseries, playgroups and holiday clubs follow the EYFS. The EYFS ensures that a child reaches their milestones in the following areas; personal development, communication skills, problem-solving, physical and creative development.
Each type of establishment assigns a key worker to each child. They collate evidence of activities and the results of assessments relating to each learning objective. Parents usually receive a learning log showing everything their child has achieved. Children who require extra help are identified early so that they get the support they need.
Ofsted inspect the quality of the children’s surroundings and the qualifications and experience of staff. Each member of staff is subject to an Advanced DBS check which identifies any previous convictions. Children who receive a high standard of early years provision make significant development in all areas of the framework.
Children who do not attend such establishments don’t have to follow the EYFS. In 2010 the Government funded fifteen hours of free childcare for children aged 3 – 4. This introduces all children to the EYFS before they start school.
Creative play is an important part of the EYFS. Play is the most versatile learning tool that exists. We underestimate its importance because it is so much fun. Creative play is also known as role play and imaginative play. Once children immerse themselves in their imaginary worlds they become whatever they want to be.
Schools are able to accommodate creative play with different pieces of playground equipment. Sand and Water Basins are present in every early years setting because they are so versatile. Children talk about their creations, learn simple science facts and how to communicate with their friends.
Musical playground equipment gives children the chance to make music during lessons and playtime. A Mud Kitchen provides hours of play and learning. Climbing frames and trim trails help children to develop physically and imaginatively. Teachers plan play activities so that children develop particular skills.
Cognitive development involves thought process, problem solving and interaction with others. Children learn these skills by doing and play is the most effective way to develop cognitive skills. Creative play builds up children’s brains and helps them to read and understand numbers better.
If you would like to find out more about creative play please contact us here.
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