This page has been produced to support you in developing your learning environment. It offers suggestions for a wide variety of ‘types of play’ and includes ideas of resources you may think of providing.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) says:

'It is important that all providers consider how best to create, maintain and improve an [environment] so it meets the highest standards and offers the best experiences for young children.’ (practice guidance p8)

As a childminder you offer children access to a wide variety of environments:

• indoors
• outdoors
• off-site including walks, outings and visits

Having access to different learning environments is crucial to:

• encouraging children’s motivation and an enthusiasm for learning
• developing skills
• building confidence and self esteem
• developing emotional wellbeing 

It is understood that children learn best when they have opportunities to be supported toward:

• making their own choices
• making their own decisions
• returning to experiences and activities across a period of time
• extending their ideas

The childminders role in supporting children’s learning within these environments includes:

• developing and supporting children’s feelings of security and well-being
• encouraging children to try, to have a go
• making sure children can repeat experiences
• giving children time and opportunity to develop their skills
• using the learning opportunities already ‘built in’ and available (for example setting the table, sorting out washing, learning to cross the road)
• developing your own knowledge and understanding of child development and how children think and learn
• observing children, assessing what you see and planning to progress individual children’s learning forward