childcare

• Toddlers develop object permanence, realizing that objects continue to exist even when they can't see or hear them.
• Play helps children make sense of the world around them
• It is essential to be aware of any changes or concerns regarding a child's health, development or behaviour.
• Children develop through play
• Children's needs change as they grow older so it is important to adapt activities accordingly.
• Toddlers develop better coordination, balance, and motor skills through activities like jumping, climbing, riding tricycles, and can start dressing themselves.
• The main aim is to ensure that children are safe, healthy, happy, secure, confident, independent, caring, responsible, effective communicators, capable of learning, able to form positive relationships with others.
• Toddlers begin pretending during play, using symbolic thought and imagination.
• They also understand cause-and-effect relationships and begin to imitate actions.
• Play is an important part of learning and development during this stage.
• Toddlers are curious about the world around them and enjoy exploring their environment through play.
• The role of the key person is important as it provides continuity and security for the child
• Children are naturally curious about their surroundings and will explore everything within reach.
• Play allows children to experiment with different ideas and concepts without fear of failure
• They may put things into their mouths as part of this exploration.
• Key persons are responsible for observing and assessing individual children's progress
• This is known as mouthing and it is important to ensure that all items used with young children are safe and non-toxic.
• The EYFS framework provides guidance on how to support children's learning and development from birth to age five.
• They also work with parents/carers to ensure consistency between home and setting environments
• There are seven areas of learning and development within the EYFS framework.
• Preschoolers are able to understand more complex ideas and concepts, but still need guidance from adults.
• Each area has its own set of early learning goals which describe what most children will have achieved by the end of their reception year at school.
• Aims of the EYFS include promoting good health, supporting children's emotional well-being, developing social competence, fostering independence, encouraging self-esteem, providing opportunities for learning, and preparing children for school.
• Developmental milestones refer to specific achievements reached by babies at different stages of their growth and development.
• Babies develop rapidly during the first year of life, reaching various physical, cognitive, language, and social-emotional milestones along the way.
• They may still need guidance from adults but can make decisions independently.
• They may engage in parallel play, where they play alongside other children but do not interact directly.
• As they grow older, they become more interested in socializing and playing cooperatively with peers.
• Children develop at different rates and have individual needs
• Key persons need to be aware of these differences and adapt activities accordingly
• Observation helps practitioners identify areas where children may need additional support or challenge
• They may become more assertive and have tantrums when they don't get what they want.
• It is essential that adults respond sensitively to these behaviors and avoid punishing or ignoring them.
• Play can be both solitary or social, depending on the child's preference
• It helps develop problem solving skills, creativity, and imagination
• This helps staff understand how each child develops at their own pace, which can vary greatly from one child to another.
• Staff must be aware that some children may not want to engage in activities or interact with others, but they still need support and encouragement.
• It is essential to ensure that all children have access to high-quality care and education regardless of any additional needs they may have.
• Observations can be made through direct observation, photographs or video recordings, and discussions with parents/carers.
• Mouthing helps babies develop their senses and coordination skills.