Qualification: NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Educator
Unit: Unit 3.3: Apply theoretical perspectives and philosophical approaches to play
Learning outcome: Be able to apply philosophical approaches in own practice
Assessment criteria: Create a plan using philosophical approaches to play which support the developmental stage, needs and interests of children aged: 0-1 year 11 months, 2-2 years 11 months, 3-5 years
For this assessment criterion, you will be required to use your knowledge of philosophical approaches to play to create plans that support the developmental stage, needs and interests of children in different age groups.
During the planning process, it is essential that you take into consideration each child’s unique interests, which you will have learned from your observations and experience working with them.
Similarly, you will need to take into account each child’s unique needs to ensure that principles of inclusion are adhered to.
And, of course, you should also cater for the age and stage of development of the child.
The three age groups that you will be planning for are:
- 0 to 1 year and 11 months (essentially 0 to 2-year-olds)
- 2 to 2 years and 11 months (essentially 2 to 3-year-olds)
- 3 to 5 years
Below, we have provided some examples of how you might use philosophical approaches to inform your planning.
0 to 2 years
Froebel recommended the use of rhymes and songs to support the development of a child’s language skills, so you may consider planning this type of activity
2 to 3 years
Several philosophies, including those of Froebel, the McMillan Sisters, and Forest Schools highlight the importance of children having access to outdoor areas.
Therefore, you might plan a walk to the local park or wildlife area.
In addition, several philosophical approaches emphasise that children should have access to natural materials, so the walk would also allow children to interact with these types of resources (e.g. sticks, stones, leaves etc.)
3 to 5 years
Several philosophical approaches (e.g. Isaacs) emphasise the importance of imaginative play in a child’s learning and development, particularly for social and emotional development.
Therefore, you may wish to plan an activity where the children can dress up in different costumes and role-play.