The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is how the Government and early years professionals describe the time in a child’s life between birth and age 5.

This is a very important stage as it helps your child get ready for school as well as preparing them for their future learning and successes.  Pre-schools registered to deliver the EYFS must follow a legal document called the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework.

The Foundation Years website has developed a fantastic Parents Guide to EYFS.  It is brief and to the point highlighting important information in bite-size chunks.  We would recommend all parents take the time to read it.

Again, the Parents Guide to EYFS has some great suggestions - see page five.

All the activities you do with your child at home are important in supporting their learning and development. Reading, singing nursery rymes, cooking, baking, or simply talking to your child are all great things to do.  If you are unsure, check out what some of the local Children's Centers offer - Bessemer Grange in particular has a very good one.

If you are looking for more ideas why not try visiting earlyhomelearning.org.uk, familylearning.org.uk or foundationyears.org.uk for a range of resources and contacts.