Qualification: NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Educator
Unit: Unit 3.5: Develop emergent literacy skills of children
Learning outcome: Be able to review how planned activities support emergent literacy
Assessment criteria: Evaluate how planned activities support emergent literacy in relation to current frameworks
Planned activities are essential for supporting emergent literacy in Early Years settings, as outlined in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).
Activities should be designed to reinforce the core skills of language and literacy development, promote communication and problem-solving, create opportunities for children to experiment with narrative and explore their own creativity.
Planned activities also provide a structured learning environment that allows children to move from simple word recognition tasks like matching letters or sounds, to more complex understanding and application of language such as decoding written words or discussing texts. Additionally, through play-based learning experiences and meaningful conversations with adults, children can learn the value of caring and sharing ideas with others.
Section 1.11 of the EYFS states that:
Practitioners must consider the individual needs, interests, and development of
EYFS
each child in their care, and must use this information to plan a challenging and
enjoyable experience for each child in all areas of learning and development.
Therefore, practitioners should consider the needs of each individual child when planning suitable activities, including their age, stage of development, interests and needs.
Observation and assessment are also key aspects of the EYFS, which are important for identifying the strengths of individual children and areas where they may be falling behind – early identification leads to early intervention, which means that the child will have their needs met swiftly.
By carefully designing activities to align with EYFS expectations, practitioners can ensure that all children have access to quality early years education that encourages them to become independent learners who are confident in their ability to communicate effectively.