Early Years
Email this pageIf your child is aged between 2–4 years, the chances are that they are in some form of Early Years setting, whether that is a nursery, preschool, playgroup, or with a childminder.
This is a hugely important stage for your child’s learning, we will provide information on the Early Years Framework, early years settings, Early Years Support and more.
The Early Years Foundation Stage
The Early Years Foundation Stage explained
Early Years Language
Early Years Language information and resources
Early Years Settings and Applying
Types of early years settings and how to reserve a space
Early Years Support
Early years providers should consider how best to use their resources to support the progress of children with SEN.
SEN Funding in Early Years
Information on Free Early Years Entitlement, SEND Premium and inclusion funding and Early Years Pupil Premium.
How can I defer my child starting school?
Information on Early Year Deferral and Summer Borne Children
Early Years Transition
Settling into nursery or moving to primary school
Toileting Tips
Toileting tips and Support
Further Information
Parent Toolkit - Ambitious about Autism
This practical toolkit contains a wealth of straightforward information in one place to guide parents and carers through their child’s journey in the early years. From the autism assessment process to the first day of school, this toolkit is packed with practical tips and checklists to support parents during the earliest years of their child’s life. It also provides signposts to sources of support or additional information.
BBC - Tiny Happy People
There are many common disabilities that can lead to speech and language difficulties. These resources are designed to help families of children with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND).
Early Years Alliance
The 'free childcare' offers: what parents and carers need to know
Essex Music Education Hub
Develop musicianship by learning to play an instrument as a whole class.
Early Years Foundation Explained
from the Early Years Alliance
Essex Early Years & Childcare
from Essex County Council
SEND in Early Years
from Kids - Giving Disabled Children a Brighter Future
Talk, Listen & Cuddle
TLC is an Essex campaign helping parents, carers and families give their young children the best start to life, developing their communication skills through playful learning at home.
Good Beginners Course
A course for parents and carers of children aged 5 or under, who have autism or social communication needs
Family Information Service
The Essex Family Information Service (FIS) offer free and impartial advice to parents of children and young people aged 0 to 25 on Early Years Education Entitlement, Family finance, finding a childcare provider, play & learning for children and more.
Statutory framework for the early years foundation stage
from the Department of Education