ABSTRACT
This chapter argues that the provision of a mere PHSE curriculum is inadequate for children in Early Years. Self-determination theory (SDT) is a theory of motivation that assumes that all learners, no matter how young or inexperienced they might be, are guided by a set of innate psychological needs, namely relatedness, autonomy and competence, which shape their self-motivation, their building of self-esteem and their healthy personal development. Many of the child's natural motivations to become competent and to master their world can be built upon through a setting's approach to personal and health education. A child's growing sense of autonomy may be enhanced through the environment, in tandem with the adults' practice. Moreover, a rule needs to be delivered with emotional conviction so that the child realises the significance of the cognitive message. Other peers within the setting have an important role in the development of a child's social control and competence.
