Early Years Education Glossary

A stage of play where children play next to each other without direct interaction, often observed in toddlers.

The method or approach to teaching and education, particularly focused on the techniques and strategies used in early childhood settings.

Customising learning experiences to cater to each child's interests, strengths, and areas for growth.

The ability to hear and distinguish sounds including the individual sounds (phonemes) that make up spoken words, developing pre-reading and pre-writing skills. Also recognition of rhyme and rhythm and increasingly, sound blending.

Developing fundamental movement skills, promoting physical activity, and a lifelong enjoyment of movement.

An educational approach that uses play as a primary method for children to learn and explore concepts.

Presenting children with real-world problems or challenges to solve, fostering critical thinking and creativity.