Although it may feel as if the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is something for only childcare providers to think about, it is important that parents are aware of how childcarers follow the framework. 

Ethos

The EYFS is the underlying foundation for early years education, but childcarers use this as the skeleton while creating their own ethos, vision and curriculum which meets requirements but underpins their own principles. This is why you will come across Montessori nurseries, Forest schools, Pre-schools and full daycare nurseries. They are all following the EYFS but they build their own curriculums into their foundation. 

When looking for a setting for your child, it’s really important you choose a childcare provider that matches your ethos and principles as a family. You may also want to consider how learning is shared with you as parents, are there regular parents evenings or do you get regular feedback from staff on the day or in an app for example. You can read more about how to choose the right childcare for your family here.  

Part of the EYFS is also around encouraging healthy children, and nursery meals are a big part of that. Some nurseries have on-site kitchens providing home-cooked meals, some get food delivered from specialist providers, and some chains might share a kitchen across a few of their sites.

Staff

Staff teams differ and while some staff have remained in the childcare industry for a long time, the industry as a whole is suffering a huge recruitment crisis, with no immediate signs of getting any better. 

It’s really important that you know who will be looking after your child and if this person will be present every day your child attends. This will help you to understand how they will work on creating a strong attachment with your child and family. 

It is also totally fine to ask about staff qualifications. Not all staff in settings have to be qualified but there needs to be a percentage of qualified and non qualified staff. Staff caring for babies need to have had baby training and should be receiving regular training in house to develop their skills and knowledge.

Safeguarding

As a parent you want to know your children are safe when they are not with you. The EYFS has clear guidance of keeping children safe, which covers all areas of provision. 

A few areas that you may want to think about are: when children are taken on trips and outings, how will staff keep them safe and what protocols have been put in place to ensure they can have fun, learn and also be well cared for? 

In addition, it might be wise to find out how many staff are paediatric first aid trained. You want peace of mind that if your child is ill or needs emergency care that there is going to be quick action.