Early Years Foundation Stage? What is it?

The Foundation Stage has evolved over time, having been mixed with a bit of this and that it has now emerged as the Early Years Foundation Stage. What is the Early Years Foundation Stage? I would say it is a blend of best practice, developed over a number of years into a coherent and flexible guide for Early Years practitioners who want to inspire young children and encourage their timely development.

In 2000 we had The Curriculum guidance to the Foundation Stage;

in 2002 the Birth to Three Matters Framework was put into place. Then

in 2003 the National Standards for Under 8s and Childminding emerged.

Early Years practitioners worked through the changes, researchers looked for models of good practice and a new model emerged. This model is called the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). It is intended to offer a coherent and flexible approach to care and learning.

Today all Daycare providers and Childminders have to ensure that children in their care are working through the Early Years Foundation Stage.