EYFS

Despite computing not being explicitly mentioned within the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) statutory framework, which focuses on the learning and development of children from birth to age five, there are many opportunities for young children to use technology to solve problems and produce creative outcomes. In particular, many areas of the framework provide opportunities for pupils to develop their ability to use computational thinking effectively.

Resources used include: Barefoot Computing and Hello Ruby

Early Years Computing at WHA:

The following is from the EYFS Framework with examples from WHA EYFS Computing in purple:

Every child deserves the best possible start in life and the support that enables them to fulfil their potential. Computational Thinking, problem solving and knowing about Technology - what it is, why it is used and how it works is part of this foundation for the future. It also includes such things as turn taking, dexterity and motor control, following instructions and working with others. There is also the bigger picture to do with Values, attitude, enthusisam, curiosity, creativity and using technology to access and learn about the world. 

The areas of learning and development 

Three areas are particularly important for building a foundation for igniting children’s curiosity and enthusiasm for learning, forming relationships and thriving. These are the prime areas:

 • communication and language - e.g. practicing listening skills, following instructions, giving instructions, suggesting ideas, giving answers, engaging in role play, asking what if ...

 • physical development - e.g. dancing, precision and control of touch screen or using a mouse, climbing the stairs to go to the Computer Suite

 • personal, social and emotional development - e.g. emoji's to represent feelings, drawing happy/sad faces, working with partners or in groups, modelling social interactions and how to behave, curiosity, sense of wonder and excitement about finding out and doing things

Providers must also support children in four specific areas, through which the three prime areas are strengthened and applied. The specific areas are:

 • literacy e.g. listening to and repeating parts of a story, drawing on letters using mouse or touchscreen

 • mathematics e.g. direction and distance, playing counting and shape matching games, making patterns

 • understanding the world e.g. learning how a remote control works, clicking and making things happen, watching videos of people talking about their lives and jobs, creating a pond by adding elements like stones, plants and animals

 • expressive arts and design e.g. drawing, creating patterns, making & using shapes, experimenting, playing sounds, using music making programs, encouraging self expression, being supportive of achievements and explorations