Harmony principles in the EYFS: the principle of Interdependence

One of six seasonal models of practice for EYFS practitioners, this pack exemplifies how connections can be established over the course of a half term between learning themes, Nature-rich provision and a child’s developing awareness and understanding of the principle of Interdependence.

At the heart of a sustainable future is a way of thinking and acting that weighs up options and makes decisions based on a more considered view. We begin this journey of understanding in the early years, exploring a world of cooperation, where the whole depends upon the individual and vice versa.

Throughout the EYFS, children are introduced to opportunities to explore and develop their initial knowledge and understanding about interdependence. For example, when they experience working together as a team to get something done that they could only do together or recognise the role that fallen leaves play in supporting wildlife and soil. They may observe the bees, butterflies or wasps that are pollinating plants to make food for us while the plant feeds the pollinator.

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

The second of our summer 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 interdependence
Finding maths in Nature
Exploring natural creativity
Being out and about in Nature
Facilitating loose parts play

Included in the pack is a printable planning grid that practitioners can use to map teaching and learning experiences across all nine areas. There are suggestions for vocabulary, images and signs that 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
Different environments
Seasonal change

Personal, social and emotional development (PSED)

Valuable individual
Relationships
Others’ perspective
Health and wellbeing