Planning in the Moment with Two and Three Year Olds

Children are most engaged – and therefore learn best – when they are following their own interests. In this book, Anna Ephgrave shows how her acclaimed planning in the moment approach can be used with two and three year olds, yielding dramatic results for both children and staff. It reveals the impact that free-flowing, child-initiated play has on very young children’s wellbeing, making them feel safe, secure, and consequently helping them to be fully engaged in their learning.

The first part of the book clearly explains the principles of child-initiated play and demonstrates how practitioners can create the best possible environment for very young children. It also looks at the resources and practices needed for them to flourish. There is detailed guidance on the role of the practitioner, including how adults should observe children’s play before deciding how – or if – to interact in that moment. This ensures that each interaction moves learning forward and supports the child’s unique development.

The second part of the book tracks some of the events from each month in the toddler room of an outstanding preschool, following a cohort of children through a year. This section shows how the setting moved from topic-based, adult-led activities to a fully child-led way of working.

Key features include:

• Over 350 full colour photos to illustrate practice
• Specific guidance on using the in the moment approach with all children, including those with additional needs
• Advice on working with parents, individual children, and groups
• Examples of individual learning journeys
• Photocopiable templates of ‘focus-child’ sheets

Covering all aspects of practice from the organisation of the room and outdoor environment to the routines and boundaries that ensure children are safe and happy, this book is essential reading for anyone who works with two and three year olds.