Tips

The following tips will help you plan the environment for a holistic approach to children's development and learning.

• Depending on the type of setting: all equipment must be of the correct level for the age and stage of development of the children allowing for ethnic differences and children with special needs.
• Access to equipment must allow the children choice and they must be able to get out and clear away equipment. This furthers their development and increases their self-esteem.
• Consulting with children when developing an area of provision.
• Listening to children's views, ideas and concerns and feelings should be an integral part of everyday practice in an early years setting.
• Including an interesting outdoor play area that practitioners see as an integral part of the whole learning environment.
• Indoors, a setting must take account of children's need to move around.
• Positive images addressing equality in all areas should feature in displays and resources, and cultural and linguistic diversity should be celebrated and supported.