Within the new EYFS curriculum the ‘Technology’ strand has been removed from ‘Understanding the World’ and has not been replaced with any updated guidance. However, computing and technology are still vitally important subjects to teach to Foundation Stage children. Teaching computing within the curriculum ensures that children enter Year 1 with a strong foundation of knowledge. Computing lessons in the EYFS also ensure that children develop listening skills, problem-solving abilities and thoughtful questioning — as well as improving subject skills across the seven areas of learning. We live in a technological world and there is no escape from the reality that technology is integrated into the lives of young children. Just as we ensure the children in our care are ready for the adult world by teaching them maths and literacy, we should also make sure that they are fluent in computer literacy and all-important e-safety.

We have designed a carefully sequenced Computing curriculum which includes the youngest learners in our school. We have found purposeful ways for our children to create with video, photographs, digital images, sound recordings and control devices like floor robots. They also learn social skills, rules and responsible use when using devices and the internet. All of this is done with The Characteristics of Learning in mind, making purposeful links to all areas of learning.

Computing in EYFS doesn’t mean typing out a Word document or creating a code. Our Computing scheme for the EYFS can mean: 

• taking a photograph with a camera or tablet
• searching for information on the internet
• playing games on the interactive whiteboard
• exploring an old phone or other mechanical toys
• using a Beebot
• watching a video clip
• listening to music

Allowing children the opportunity to explore technology in this carefree and often child-led way, means that not only will they develop a familiarity with equipment and vocabulary but they will have a strong start in Key Stage 1 Computing and all that it demands.