The Early Years Foundation Stage Framework (EYFS) sets out the learning and development stages for children as they grow from birth to five years. For those working in the early years – whether in a nursery, pre-school, a childminder or in a reception class in school – the EYFS outlines what they need to do to support your child.

The purpose of this booklet is to help you as a parent/carer* find out more about how your child is learning and developing during their first five years, in relation to the EYFS. Children develop more rapidly during the first five years of their lives than at any other time. This booklet has been written to help you as a parent know what to expect during these vitally important years by focusing on the seven areas of learning and development which are covered in the EYFS.

In this guide, your child’s first five years have been divided up into six age bands which overlap. This is because every child is different and children do not grow and develop at the same rate. It highlights what you might notice your child doing at these points.

Children learn and develop through playing, exploring, being active, creative and being asked questions to help their thinking. After each age band we give you an example of some ideas and tips as to how you can help your child’s learning and development. Page 34 details where you can find out more.

As you know, being a parent is very special and amazing as you watch your child grow up. It can also have challenges. We hope this booklet will help you to know how your child is developing by highlighting what to expect, remembering that all children are different. Communication and language and literacy are VITAL areas for you to enjoy supporting your child with. It is important that your child grows up to be a good communicator and a keen reader.

One way of using this booklet could be to use it as a reference – see what you notice your child can do. Use it as a prompt to explore and try new things together.

In using this booklet, if you feel unsure about your child’s learning and development you might want to speak to someone from your local children’s centre, your child’s key person, a childminder or a health professional.