Essential Experiences Mini-series

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By Hilary White

‘Essential experiences’ is a fascinating topic to think about. With so much for the young child to discover and learn, we could argue that every experience is essential. Nevertheless, as practitioners, we do need to prioritise certain skills, competencies and bodies of knowledge – and offer experiences that will enable children to develop as curious, responsible and rounded human beings.

Group of children on a nature walk trail

The following articles and activities are just some examples of what we might call ‘essential’ and are separated into indoor, outdoor and wider world ‘trip’ experiences. Weaving in and out of every activity are opportunities to develop skills and abilities, such as choosing, self-regulating, caring for the self, exploring feelings, co-operating, considering others, assessing and making changes, thinking, listening, asking questions and discussing.

These articles have been deigned to work together to act as an activity guide for caregivers. Each article contains a range of fantastic themed activity ideas and links to the EYFS Early Learning Goals and Early Year Outcomes.