The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is the bedrock of early education in the UK. It provides the framework that helps children develop key skills and knowledge from birth to five that will support them throughout their lives. Within this framework, EYFS Development Matters serves as a non-statutory guidance document. It is designed to help practitioners understand child development and support learning in a flexible, responsive, and child-centred way.
But what does this really mean for professionals working in early years settings? How can Development Matters shape day-to-day practice? More importantly, how can practitioners use it to ensure children get the best possible start in life?
What is EYFS Development Matters?
The EYFS Development Matters is neither a checklist nor a rigid assessment tool. Instead, it provides a broad, research-informed pathway of children’s development across seven key areas of learning. These are:
- Communication and Language
- Physical Development
- Personal, Social, and Emotional Development
- Literacy
- Mathematics
- Understanding the World
- Expressive Arts and Design
The 2021 version of Development Matters focuses on a broad, professional understanding of child development rather than a tick-box approach. It encourages practitioners to use their judgement, observe children in real play and learning situations, and build relationships that support individual progress.
The Role of Practitioners in EYFS Development Matters
One of the fundamental principles of the EYFS framework is that every child is unique. Development Matters reinforces this by encouraging a flexible, responsive approach to learning. Instead of assuming all children will reach milestones simultaneously, practitioners are guided to look at the bigger picture—taking into account children’s interests lived experiences, and unique ways of learning.
So, what does this look like in practice?
- Observation, not documentation overload: Practitioners are encouraged to spend more time with children, engaging in their play and conversations rather than constantly recording observations.
- High-quality interactions: Responsive, meaningful interactions are at the heart of effective learning. Simple conversations, storytelling, and active listening are more valuable than lengthy written assessments.
- Holistic assessment: Practitioners should use their professional judgement to assess progress rather than relying solely on age-band expectations.
Planning in an EYFS Setting Using Development Matters
Practitioners use the EYFS Development Matters to shape activities that genuinely connect with children. Rather than following a set plan, they observe what excites and engages each child, then build on those interests to create meaningful learning experiences.
For example:
- A child fascinated by insects might be encouraged to observe bugs in the garden, leading to discussions about habitats and life cycles.
- A group of children who love building with blocks could be introduced to problem-solving activities involving bridges, towers, and structures.
- A child who enjoys storytelling could be supported in creating their own books and developing literacy skills in an engaging, hands-on way.
Instead of rigid lesson plans, Development Matters encourages practitioners to follow the child’s lead, offering guidance, scaffolding, and challenges that promote deeper learning.
Reducing Pressure on Practitioners
One of the key messages in Development Matters (2021) is that paperwork should not take precedence over working with children. This is a crucial shift, particularly for those working in environments where excessive documentation has become the norm.
Reducing unnecessary paperwork allows professionals to focus on what really matters—building relationships and creating rich learning experiences. This benefits not only children but also staff, who can spend more time doing what they love rather than being buried under administration.
How Development Matters Supports SEND and Inclusion
A truly effective EYFS setting is one that recognises and celebrates diversity. Development Matters emphasises the importance of inclusion and accessibility, ensuring that all children, including those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), receive the necessary support to thrive.
Rather than expecting all children to fit into a prescribed model of learning, practitioners are encouraged to adapt, differentiate, and be flexible. This might mean:
- Providing additional sensory support for a child with autism.
- Using Makaton or visual supports for children with communication difficulties.
- Allowing more time and different approaches to learning for those who need it.
By focusing on children’s strengths rather than deficits, Development Matters ensures that all learners are valued and supported in their own way.
Parental Engagement and EYFS Development Matters
Parents are children’s first and most important educators. Development Matters encourages strong relationships between practitioners and families to ensure continuity of learning between home and the setting.
Some ways to strengthen parental engagement include:
- Sharing learning moments: Simple quick conversations at drop-off or pick-up can be more effective than lengthy reports.
- Providing ideas for home learning: Practical, everyday activities like counting steps, storytelling at bedtime, or baking together can all support children’s development.
- Encouraging parents to share their child’s interests and experiences helps practitioners plan more personalised, meaningful learning opportunities.
Challenges and Misconceptions About Development Matters
Despite the benefits, some professionals find moving away from a milestone-driven approach challenging. There is sometimes a misconception that Development Matters removes the need for assessment entirely, which is not the case.
Assessment is still essential but should be formative, meaningful, and child-centred. The goal is to understand where a child is in their development and provide the right support to help them progress—not to force them into predetermined boxes.
Another common challenge is the transition to primary school. Some reception teachers worry that a play-based approach won’t prepare children for more formal education. However, research consistently shows that learning through play builds strong foundations in communication, problem-solving, and resilience—skills that will serve children far beyond their early years.
Final Thoughts About EYFS Development Matters
The EYFS Development Matters framework is a valuable resource, but its effectiveness depends on how it is implemented in practice. It requires a shift in mindset, moving away from an emphasis on paperwork, checklists, and rigid assessments. Instead, it emphasizes the importance of professional judgment, meaningful interactions, and genuinely child-centered learning.
For practitioners, this means trusting their instincts, valuing relationships, and focusing on quality over quantity. When used well, Development Matters doesn’t just shape children’s learning—it transforms how professionals approach early years education.
Ultimately, early years professionals are shaping the future. By using Development Matters effectively, they can ensure every child, regardless of background or ability, gets the very best start in life.
