Role of the adult

Practitioners have a key role in supporting the learning and development of children. In order to do this, they need a good understanding of child development and the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). Practitioners can access free child development training, and other support to deliver the EYFS from the Department for Education. 

The Education Endowment Foundation has a Guide to Effective Professional Development in the Early Years. This guide explores 4 recommended areas for professional development to include and considers some of the key features or mechanisms of each area which could make the professional development more effective.

Effective early years and childcare practitioners will have a good knowledge of child development and strong interactions skills. The following resources will support practitioners to develop and refresh their knowledge and skills:

• early years child development training
• help for early years providers: interactions

Additional information and guidance to support practitioners in their role:

• attachment and the role of the key person
• help for early years providers: Reducing paperwork
• supporting development and learning
• Role of the adult in the learning environment (PDF, 178KB) -  guidance to help adults engage with children and support their learning throughout the early years setting