The early years foundation stage (EYFS) framework sets the standards for learning, development, and care for children from birth to five years old.
Nurseries, childminders and reception classes follow this framework to ensure children receive the highest quality care and education.
See: SEND Local Offer website - Early years
Seven areas of learning and development
The EYFS framework outlines seven key areas of learning and development that shape early years education.
These areas are interconnected and equally important in supporting children’s growth.
Prime areas
The following three prime areas are the foundation of a child’s development and learning:
- communication and language
- physical development
- personal, social and emotional development
Specific areas
These four specific areas strengthen and apply the prime areas, helping children further develop their skills:
- literacy
- mathematics
- understanding the world
- expressive arts and design
Each of these areas works together to support a child’s overall development, preparing them for the next steps in their learning journey.
The SEND Local Offer website provides guidance on what to do if you think your child might have SEND:
SEND and early years providers
Providers of early years education, including those funded by local authorities, are required to follow the SEND Code of Practice.
This means they must have clear procedures in place to support children with SEND, including identifying and responding to any special educational needs or disabilities.
Role of the SENCO
Every setting must have a designated special educational needs co-ordinator (SENCO). The SENCO is responsible for coordinating SEND support.
If you have concerns about your child’s development, you can ask to speak with the SENCO at your child’s setting to discuss your child’s needs and the support available.
SEN support and the graduated approach
Children with special educational needs should receive SEN support. This involves additional or different help from what is typically provided to other children of the same age.
The goal of SEN support is to help children achieve the developmental milestones set out in the early years foundation stage (EYFS) or any other agreed objectives.
This process is known as the graduated approach to SEN.
The graduated approach ensures that support is tailored to each child’s unique needs.
Parents are an essential part of this process, and settings should involve you in discussions and decisions about your child’s support.
There is more information on the SEND Local Offer website:
Funding for early years placements
If you’re looking for financial support for your child’s early years education, there are several funding options available.
You can find funding options available to you on the Childcare Choices website.
SEN inclusion fund
Every local authority has an SEN inclusion fund to help early years providers meet the needs of children with SEND. You can contact your child’s setting to learn more about the specific support and funding options available.
Disability access fund (DAF)
Early years settings may also be eligible for the disability access fund (DAF) if they offer places for 3 and 4-year-olds who receive Disability Living Allowance (DLA).
This funding ensures that children with disabilities can access the support they need in early years settings.
Further information
For more information on funding for early years providers, visit: