☁️ The EYFS Explained: What Parents Can Expect From Us ☁️
As a registered childminder, my role isn’t just to care for your child—it’s to support their learning, development, and happiness every day. One of the key ways I do this is by following the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. If you’re new to childcare or early years settings, the EYFS can sometimes feel like a big, complicated document… but don’t worry! This blog explains what it actually means for your child and what you, as parents, can expect from me in terms of observations and assessments.
What Is the EYFS?
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is a national framework that sets the standards for learning, development, and care for all children from birth to five years old. It helps all early years providers—like nurseries, preschools, and childminders—make sure children are safe, supported, and learning through play.
The EYFS covers seven areas of learning:
Prime Areas
• Communication and Language
• Physical Development
• Personal, Social and Emotional Development
Specific Areas
• Literacy
• Mathematics
• Understanding the World
• Expressive Arts and Design
Your child won’t be formally “taught” these subjects—they will naturally explore them through play, daily routines, and activities that follow their interests.
How I Track Your Child’s Development
My observations and assessments help me understand how your child is growing and what support or next steps they might need. They also give you a lovely insight into their progress, interests, and achievements while they’re with me!
Here’s what you can expect:
⭐ 1. Baseline Assessment (after 6 weeks)
When your child first joins me, I spend the first few weeks getting to know them—what they enjoy, how they communicate, how confident they feel, and how they move and play.
After around 6 weeks, I complete a baseline assessment, which gives us:
• A clear starting point for their development
• An understanding of their strengths and interests
• Any areas where they may need additional support
This is shared with you through the Tiney App, and we can chat through it together at any time.
⭐ 2. Monthly Observations
To keep you updated and involved in your child’s journey, I aim to upload one observation per month to the Tiney App.
These observations may include:
• Photos of your child engaged in play
• Notes on new skills they’re developing
• Examples of language, creativity, problem-solving, or social interactions
• Special moments, achievements, or funny stories from our week
Each observation is linked to the EYFS, but written in simple, parent-friendly language. My goal is for you to feel connected to their learning even on the days you’re not with them.
⭐ 3. The 2–3 Year Progress Check
For children aged between 2 and 3 years old, the EYFS requires a more detailed assessment known as the Progress Check at Age 2.
This looks closely at the three Prime Areas of development:
• Communication and Language
• Physical Development
• Personal, Social and Emotional Development
We’ll discuss:
• What your child is doing well
• Any areas where they may need support
• How we can work together to help them thrive
You’ll receive a written copy via the Tiney App, and it can also be shared with health visitors if needed.
Why Observations and Assessments Matter
These aren’t tests, and children aren’t expected to meet set targets. Instead, these tools help us:
• Understand and celebrate your child’s unique journey
• Notice their interests so we can plan activities they’ll love
• Spot any early areas of need and support them early
• Work together—you know your child best!
Most importantly, you’ll get a beautiful record of their early years learning and milestones.
Keeping Parents in the Loop
I believe in open communication and partnership with families. The Tiney App is a wonderful way for us to stay connected. You’ll get regular updates, photos, messages, and the reassurance that your child is happy, learning, and cared for.
If you ever have questions about the EYFS, your child’s development, or our assessments, I’m always here to chat.
~ Alice
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