What to Expect, When?

What to Expect in the Early Years Foundation Stage

Every child is unique and develops in their own way and at their own pace. The Early Years Foundation Stage, commonly known as the EYFS, sets the standards for children’s learning, development and care from birth to five years old.

At HETTY Preschool, we use the EYFS to provide enjoyable, meaningful experiences that build upon each child’s individual interests, strengths and needs.

What Is the “What to Expect, When?” Guide?

The “What to Expect, When?” guide has been created to help parents and carers understand more about how young children learn and develop.

It includes:

examples of the skills and behaviours children may demonstrate as they develop
information about the seven areas of learning
ideas for supporting learning through everyday play and routines
activities that families can enjoy together at home
guidance about who to speak to if you have concerns about your child’s development

The guide should be used as a helpful reference rather than a checklist. Children do not all develop in the same order or at the same speed.

Download the Parent Guide

The complete guide contains further information, examples and activity ideas for children from birth to five.

📘 Parents-Guide-to-EYFS (1)

Please note: This booklet is an older edition and uses some previous EYFS age-band terminology. It remains useful for general activity ideas, but HETTY Preschool follows the current EYFS statutory framework and current Development Matters guidance.

Working in Partnership With Families

At HETTY, we value parents and carers as children’s first and most important educators. Your child’s key person will work closely with you, share information about their progress and discuss ways that we can support their next steps together.

You can also tell us about the learning, achievements and special moments you notice at home.

If You Have Concerns

Children develop at different rates, and differences in development do not automatically mean that something is wrong.

However, if you are worried about any aspect of your child’s learning, communication, behaviour, physical development or emotional wellbeing, please speak to your child’s key person.

You may also speak to:

Tracyann Worthington BSc (Hons)
HETTY SENCo and Speech and Language Facilitator

We will listen to your concerns, discuss what you have noticed and work with you to decide whether any additional support or advice may be helpful.

Further Information

Please speak to a member of the HETTY team if you would like any help understanding the EYFS or supporting your child’s learning at home.