Children grow and develop at their own pace, but understanding key milestones can help parents support their child’s learning journey. At New Beginnings Day Nurseries, we follow Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) principles to nurture essential skills, ensuring every child reaches their developmental potential with confidence.
Birth to 12 Months: Sensory & Social Development
During the first year, babies build foundational skills through sensory exploration and bonding. Milestones include:
-Smiling and responding to familiar faces
-Babbling and making sounds to communicate
-Grasping objects and strengthening hand coordination
-Rolling over, sitting up, and beginning to crawl
1 to 2 Years: Movement & Early Communication
As toddlers grow, their mobility and communication expand. Key developments include:
-Walking with stability and beginning to run
-Saying simple words and responding to questions
-Pointing to objects and recognizing familiar items
-Showing independence and preferences in play
2 to 3 Years: Social & Emotional Growth
During this stage, children develop social awareness and emotional regulation. Milestones include:
-Engaging in pretend play and simple group activities
-Using short sentences to communicate needs
-Showing empathy and understanding emotions
-Practicing fine motor skills through drawing and puzzles
3 to 4 Years: Cognitive & Problem-Solving Development
At this stage, children refine problem-solving and school readiness skills. Key milestones include:
-Asking “why” questions and showing curiosity
-Recognizing numbers, colors, and shapes
-Forming friendships and learning to take turns
-Developing independence in dressing and self-care
4 to 5 Years: School Readiness & Confidence Building
As children approach school age, they develop critical thinking, literacy, and emotional resilience. Milestones include:
-Speaking in full sentences and following multi-step instructions
-Recognizing letters and beginning early writing
-Engaging in structured activities and following routines
-Demonstrating self-confidence and social independence
Summary
Routine isn’t about rigid schedules—it’s about creating a structured, nurturing environment that supports children’s emotional, cognitive, and social development. At New Beginnings Day Nurseries, we provide thoughtfully designed routines that help children grow with confidence while enjoying enriching learning experiences.