A team of academics and childcare experts, including Toxic Childhood author Sue Palmer, have said the curriculum for children from birth to five has been introduced by stealth. They said it would make children unnecessarily anxious and distort the natural learning process.
But Steve Alexander, chief executive of the Pre-School Learning Alliance, said: "Far from being "prescriptive, severe, or overly cognitive", the foundation stage is a play-based framework. There are no set attainment targets for children under five."
Alexander said he wanted to reassure parents the foundation stage would not damage children. "Applying the framework across all early years settings means children's learning and development will be promoted wherever they access early years care and education," he said. "Activities must be based on play, exploration and active learning."
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, 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
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
