What is the EYFS?


Development Matters is a non-statutory document for practitioners to help us implement the Early Years curriculum in our settings. In September 2020, a new Development Matters was published to go alongside the new EYFS Statutory Framework and it is being trialled by 'Early Adopter' schools. This will be the new guidance for all Early Years settings, including childminders, from September 2021 and maybe subject to change before it's launched officially. Until then, keep using the 'current' Development Matters (find that here), but start to make yourself aware of the new one and the changes that are coming - you can find the new one here.
There are seven areas of learning (prime and specific) which are collectively known as the Early Years Outcomes and these are all underpinned by the Characteristics of Effective Learning. These are explained properly within the document, which is worth reading and familiarising yourself with. Here's an overview of the prime areas and the specific areas.
The Early Years Outcomes are used for tracking and assessing children's progress. Take a look at the Early Years Tracker Pack.
