The Importance of Reception Curriculum Activities
Helping children enjoy reception aged activities

A Look at our Reception Curriculum Activities
The reception curriculum in England is also known as the early years foundation stage (EYFS). During this stage, children develop in several areas, including literacy, maths, science, understanding the world, physical development, emotional development, communication and language skills. One of the best ways to promote growth in these areas is through hands-on learning.
A hands-on approach allows experienced staff and parents to engage with their pupils in a more tactile way. For example, instead of simply reading about shapes, children can manipulate them and use them to build structures. This approach helps support children to better understand concepts and retain information.
In addition to promoting academic growth, hands-on learning also helps with emotional development. Children can work together on projects, teaching them to communicate effectively and develop social skills. However, completing tasks on their own can also help pupils gain confidence.
By incorporating hands-on learning into the early years foundation stage (reception class), teachers and parents can help a child’s development and love for the wider world.
Starting school is a big step for a child and can be a daunting time for both parents and kids alike. The reception year is the first year of primary school and the beginning of a child's formal education.
The Importance of Games
Hands-On Education understands the importance of pupils being taught to learn through play, particularly in the early years of reception. During reception children are developing key skills that form the foundation for their journey throughout school and beyond.
One effective way to encourage hands-on learning is through games. Games are a great way to engage a child. In fact, many games can be adapted to fit different areas of the reception curriculum, such as literacy, numeracy, science, communication and language skills.
For example, you could use a game of "I Spy" to teach children about phonics and letter recognition. Or, you could play a game of "Counting Cars" to help children practice their numeracy skills. Whatever game you choose, make sure it is age-appropriate and aligns with the EYFS guidelines.
Other ways to incorporate hands-on learning into the classroom or your home is to use sensory play to help children explore the world around them. Another option is to incorporate art activities to encourage creativity and gross motor skills.
Remember, being taught through play is not only effective but also enjoyable for children. By creating a fun and engaging learning environment, you can help your kids develop.
What is Reception
Starting school is a big step for a child and can be a daunting time for both parents and kids alike. The reception year is the first year of primary school and the beginning of a child's formal education. The reception curriculum (EYFS) covers a range of subjects, including language and maths, to provide a strong foundation for future learning.
In reception and early key stage years, kids will begin to develop their language skills through reading, writing and speaking. Teachers and parents can support this by reading with a child regularly and encouraging them to take part in role play to further their understanding and comprehension. Being taught basic phonics will also help a child to sound out words and build their vocabulary.
Maths also begins in reception, with a child learning about numbers, counting and simple arithmetic. Teachers and parents can help a child or pupil to understand maths by using real-life examples and making it fun.
Building a Foundation for the Future
Classroom understanding is an important aspect of reception as children learn to work together and follow rules. The early years foundation stage is a crucial time for children's development, and the reception class provides a great opportunity to build a strong foundation for the future. With the right support from teachers and parents, children can develop both academically and socially.
The Expressive Arts
Expressive arts are an important aspect of early education, providing children with a creative outlet that is both enjoyable and educational. Through activities such as painting, drawing and music, pupils develop critical early learning skills such as hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.
At Hands-On Education, we understand the importance of incorporating expressive arts into a child's reception curriculum. That's why we cover all seven areas of the early years foundation stage, a precursor to children moving into year 1 and the national curriculum. By engaging in these activities, children not only develop their artistic abilities, but also enhance their early reading and language skills.
A Final Note on our Reception Curriculum Activities
In reception, children are at a crucial stage of development and understanding. Be sure to explore our completely free reception class activities today. With these fun and engaging lesson plans learning has never been so much fun!