Understanding the world

Early years foundation stage (EYFS) framework

The statutory framework for the early years foundation stage (EYFS) says:

Understanding the World Understanding the world involves guiding children to make sense of their physical world and their community. The frequency and range of children’s personal experiences increases their knowledge and sense of the world around them – from visiting parks, libraries and museums to meeting important members of society such as police officers, nurses and firefighters. In addition, listening to a broad selection of stories, non-fiction, rhymes and poems will foster their understanding of our culturally, socially, technologically and ecologically diverse world. As well as building important knowledge, this extends their familiarity with words that support understanding across domains. Enriching and widening children’s vocabulary will support later reading comprehension.

The help for early years providers website, from the Department for Education, provides information, guidance and practical support for delivering the EYFS framework. Resources on the website are split into 3 areas based on the educational programmes:

These resources will help you when reviewing your current curriculum to make sure you are meeting the requirement of the revised understanding the world area of learning.

As you make changes to your curriculum consider what you want children to learn first and plan opportunities for them to achieve this.

Training

Publications

We've produced the following resources which you might find useful to support children’s understanding of the world:

  • Games Cards
  • I wonder what Aisha is doing?
  • Little scientists experiment cards
  • People, culture and communities

Visit the publications for sale page to view and order publications.

Tools

UK Council for Internet Safety guidance on GOV.UK: