Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book aims to provide support for practitioners who are responsible for the introduction of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). It focuses on the element of the Practice Guidance which refers to the physical development of children and intends to offer: The suggested activities are closely linked to the EYFS guidance so that learning outcomes can be observed, monitored and evaluated. The current emphasis on early years is part of the UK Government's agenda to eradicate child poverty, to optimise development and to prevent early failure on entry to school in order to secure the UK's place in the global financial and political arena in the future. This book considers physical development in infants and young children and how practitioners and others can support this in its fullest sense.