Link it! Prior knowledge - Grandparents - Year 1

When embarking on the topic of grandparents in Year 1, children are encouraged to draw upon their existing knowledge and personal experiences. Many children will have had conversations with their grandparents about what life was like when they were young, providing valuable insights into past generations. Some may have previously explored family trees during their early years foundation stage (EYFS), which likely included their grandparents and perhaps even great-grandparents. This prior interaction helps children to understand and appreciate the age of these family members and the historical context of their lives.

As part of their learning, children are invited to reflect on and record what they already know about their grandparents' childhoods in the 'Prior Knowledge' section of the Knowledge Organiser. This activity not only helps to personalise the learning experience but also allows educators to understand the breadth of individual experiences within the classroom. Discussions and activities can then be tailored to connect with subjects such as history, where children can compare past and present lifestyles, or with personal development, where they learn about family relationships and the concept of aging. By linking prior knowledge from different areas, children can build a more comprehensive understanding of their grandparents' experiences and the world they grew up in.