The setting follows the Early years foundation stage (EYFS) which sets standards for learning, development, and care of children from birth to 5 years. The areas of learning supported daily within the setting are:

  • Communication and language
  • Personal, social and emotional development
  • Physical development
  • Literacy
  • Mathematics
  • Understanding the world
  • Expressive arts and design

Every classroom is organised to ensure all children have access to experiences and learning opportunities covering all the above areas daily, heavily supported by motivating, knowledgeable and encouraging practitioners through the implementation of in moment planning.

What is in the moment planning?

In the moment planning is an approach to early years education that emphasises responding to teachable moments in children’s immediate interests and needs rather than following a pre-set lesson plan. It is rooted in the belief that children learn best when their learning experiences are relevant, engaging, and based on their own curiosity and exploration.

How “in the moment planning” typically works

Observation

Practitioners will closely observe children as they play, interact, and explore their environment. This helps them understand children’s interests, strengths, and areas for development.

Responsive Teaching

Based on these observations, educators can respond in the moment to what children are doing and saying. They may ask open-ended questions, provide resources, or scaffold learning experiences to extend children’s thinking and learning.

Flexibility

In the moment planning requires practitioners to be flexible and responsive to the changing dynamics of the classroom. They adapt their plans based on children’s interests and needs as they emerge throughout the day.

Documentation

Practitioners will document children’s learning experiences through notes, photos, and videos. This documentation not only helps track children’s progress but also informs future planning by providing insights into children’s interests and learning processes.

Holistic Development

By following children’s lead and interests, in the moment planning supports holistic development across all areas, including cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development.

Child-Led Learning

In essence, in the moment planning puts the child at the centre of the learning process, allowing them to take ownership of their learning journey and supporting individual growth and independence.

Observation

Practitioners will closely observe children as they play, interact, and explore their environment. This helps them understand children’s interests, strengths, and areas for development.

Responsive Teaching

Based on these observations, educators can respond in the moment to what children are doing and saying. They may ask open-ended questions, provide resources, or scaffold learning experiences to extend children’s thinking and learning.

Flexibility

In the moment planning requires practitioners to be flexible and responsive to the changing dynamics of the classroom. They adapt their plans based on children’s interests and needs as they emerge throughout the day.

Documentation

Practitioners will document children’s learning experiences through notes, photos, and videos. This documentation not only helps track children’s progress but also informs future planning by providing insights into children’s interests and learning processes.

Holistic Development

By following children’s lead and interests, in the moment planning supports holistic development across all areas, including cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development.

Child-Led Learning

In essence, in the moment planning puts the child at the centre of the learning process, allowing them to take ownership of their learning journey and supporting individual growth and independence.

In the moment planning in early years education prioritises the individual needs and interests of each child, creating a dynamic and responsive learning environment that supports optimal learning and development.