Childcare

Brief descriptions of the principles and aims of the Foundation phase:
The Foundation phase is the statutory curriculum for all 3 to 7 years old children in Wales in both maintained and non-maintained settings.
Principles;
  * Every child is a unique child, who is constantly learning and can be resilient, capable, confident and self-assured;

  * Children learn to be strong and independent through positive relationships;

  *   Children learn and develop well in enabling environments, in which their experiences respond to their individual needs and there is a strong partnership between practitioners and parents and/or carers;

  *   Children develop and learn in different ways and at different rates. The framework covers the education and care of all children in early years provision, including children with special educational needs and disabilities.
Its aims are:
  * Quality and consistency in all early years settings, so that every child makes good progress and no child gets left behind;
  * A secure foundation through learning and development opportunities which are planned around the needs and interests of each individual child and are assessed and reviewed regularly;
  * Partnership working between practitioners and with parents and /or carers;
  * Equality of opportunity and anti-discriminatory practice, ensuring that every child is included and supported..

The 7 areas of learning are;

  * Communication and language development involves giving children opportunities to experience a rich language environment; to develop their confidence and skills in expressing themselves; and to speak and listen in a range of situations.
  * Physical development involves providing opportunities for young children to be active and interactive; and to develop their co-ordination, control, and movement. Children must also be helped to understand the importance of physical activity, and to make healthy choices in relation to food.
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