4+ year olds
How can I help my child be ready for school?
There is a lot you can do to support your child with getting ready for school. Click here to find out more information about getting your child ready for school.
Summer born children and delaying my child’s start to school: what are my options?
Some parents may be considering delaying your child’s start to school for various reasons.
More information can be found here about your options and the processes on how to do this.
Childcare
There are several different types of childcare options (settings) in Reading that may suit your family’s needs.
You can find information about these here.
What is the Early Years Foundation stage?
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is the standards for learning development and care of children from birth to 5 years. Ofsted registered childminders, pre-schools, nurseries and reception classes must follow the EYFS.
You may find it helpful to read the following documents:
UK Government Overview
Action for Children Parents Guide
What are the prime areas of learning and why are they important?
Prime areas are the building blocks for all other learning. They are fundamental, work together, and move through to support development in all other areas. The three prime areas of learning are:
- Personal, Social and Emotional Development
- Communication and Language
- Physical Development
What are the specific areas of learning and why are they important?
In addition to the prime areas, the setting must also support children in four specific areas once they reach the age of 3 years, through which the three prime areas are strengthened and applied. The specific areas are:
- Literacy
- Mathematics
- Understanding the world
- Expressive arts and design
What is the Early Years Foundation Stage Profile?
The EYFS Profile is completed for every child in the final term of their Reception year. It is a summary of your child’s attainment at the end of Reception. It’s not a test, and your child can’t ‘pass’ or ‘fail’. The profile measures your child’s attainment in 17 areas of learning, known as Early Learning Goals (ELGs).
