Observant practitioners explored how they could follow children's interests to extend their thinking and learning in the Early Years Foundation Stage, as Di Chilvers shows.

We hear a great deal nowadays about following children's interests, child-initiated learning and play and sustained shared thinking. EYFS Principles into Practice card 3.2 notes: 'Every child's learning journey takes a personal path based on their own individual interest, experiences and curriculum on offer' (Enabling Environments - Supporting Every Child).

But what does it all mean? How do we make sure that a child's interest forms a significant part of our daily work with them? What do children's interests look like and how can we possibly manage a nursery or reception class of 30-plus children if they all have different interests? Above all, how can we be sure that children are going to develop and learn if we hand the planning over to them?

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Unlimited access to news and opinion

  • Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here



Nursery World Jobs

Deputy Manager

South Hornchurch

Co Nursery Manager

Clapham, London (Greater)

Nursery Practitioner

Hammersmith and Fulham, London (Greater)