Harmony principles in the EYFS: the principle of Oneness

This is one of six seasonal models of practice for EYFS practitioners. Each one demonstrates how connections can be made and developed 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 Oneness.

The principle of Oneness provides a spiritual dimension to learning. It highlights that to fully appreciate Nature’s principles of Harmony, we need to find our own sense of peace and belonging. Enquiries of learning linked to the principle of Oneness explore how it has been interpreted over time and across religions, traditions and ways of life.

Throughout the EYFS, children are introduced to opportunities to explore and develop their initial knowledge and understanding about oneness. For example, when they find time to be still, when they appreciate quiet times or when they experience the feeling of connecting well with their friends or family in times of celebration.

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

The second of our spring 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 Oneness
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
Feelings
Others’ perspective
Health and wellbeing