However, the Government's guidance clearly emphasises the need for free,imaginative play. The Practice Guidance for the Early Years FoundationStage states: "Play underpins the delivery of all the Early YearsFoundation Stage."
The foundation stage aims to ensure all children can learn throughchallenging and enjoyable play. Registered early years providers andschools will be required to use the foundation stage from September2008, to ensure a high- quality experience that supports the child'sdevelopment in whichever childcare setting parents choose.
Play is of fundamental importance to children's development andwellbeing. Far from discouraging free play, the foundation stage givessettings flexibility in how they achieve learning goals.
Government research published in March found many settings are failingto take imaginative play seriously and feel the need to marginalise playactivities if they do not see an obvious educational advantage.
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
