Assessment - Changes in family - EYFS

In the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), assessing the understanding of changes in family dynamics over time is an integral part of the curriculum. Practitioners are encouraged to observe whether pupils engage with and enjoy participating in family traditions and routines. This could be evident in how children eagerly take part in common household activities or celebrate family milestones such as birthdays or anniversaries.

Additionally, the assessment criteria include observing if children can recognise and articulate events from their own lives and those of their family members. It is important for them to be able to differentiate between past and present events, demonstrating an awareness of the passage of time. A keen interest in the lives of people they know, such as family and friends, is also a positive indicator. Recognising and respecting diversity is another key aspect, as children should notice and understand that not everyone has the same interests or celebrates special days in the same way. These observations help educators gauge a child's social and emotional development in relation to their understanding of family and community.