Harmony principles in the EYFS: the principle of Health

This pack is one of six seasonal models of practice for the EYFS that show how connections can be established during a half term between learning themes, Nature-rich provision and a child’s developing awareness and understanding of the principle of Health.

Enquiries of learning linked to health teach us how to live healthy lives. They remind us of the need for balance and the link between our individual health and the health of our world.

Throughout the EYFS, children are introduced to opportunities to explore and develop their initial knowledge and understanding about health and the language that enables them to engage in the awe and wonder of a healthy world. For example, by exploring when we feel well, when we grow a plant from a seed successfully or when we eat good food and feel well because of it.

What is included in this model of practice for the EYFS?

The second of our autumn term models of practice exemplifies how a child’s connection with Nature and a Harmony principle can be nurtured through continuous and enhanced provision in nine areas:

Thinking sustainably
Connecting with Nature and each other
Curating Nature tables and curiosity collections
Celebrating Nature
Learning from Nature about Health
Finding maths in Nature
Exploring natural creativity
Being out and about in Nature
Facilitating loose parts play

The pack includes a printable planning grid that practitioners can use to map teaching and learning experiences across these nine areas. Suggested vocabulary, images and signs are also included – these can be used to help support children’s expression of their emerging connection with Nature and sustainability.

Which areas of learning in the EYFS are covered?

The suggested models of practice in this pack are principally linked to the following themes within two areas of learning (but also cover other areas of learning):

Understanding the world

The natural world
The senses
Seasonal change

Personal, social and emotional development (PSED)

Valuable individual
Relationships
Feelings
Health and wellbeing