In developing the Early Years Foundation Stage in England, and the Foundation Phase in Wales, many early childhood specialists fought long and hard to ensure that play was recognised as one of the main ways in which young children learn and develop. Both these policy frameworks reflect this perspective, but at the same time, provide clear guidance on the ways in which play can be used for educational purposes.
Areas of agreement in the English and Welsh documents include the importance of high-quality learning environments, both indoors and outdoors, access to a wide range of resources, and supportive interactions between children and adults that aim to stimulate children's learning processes such as thinking, problem-solving, motivation, showing interest, engaging, concentrating.
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