To reflect upon the positive and negative effects of planning

Aim

To reflect upon the positive and negative effects of planning.

Evidence and reflection

What would happen if you didn’t plan the curriculum in the long, medium or short-term?

What positive or negative effects might you notice in terms of:

• children’s learning
• the routines of the setting
• the learning environment and resources 
• the roles and well-being of practitioners.

How can you work towards an effective system where the positive effects of spontaneous provision and interactions are retained? Are there times and contexts where planning should be minimal or where it should be highly structured?

Extension

Hold a staff meeting to review the planning processes in your setting.

More in this chapter

• To consider the value of processes over product
• To consider knowledge and the needs of children
• To reflect upon the skills children require to participate in shared activities
• To consider theory in relation to learning and practice
• To reflect upon what children need to learn and when
• To consider the learning needs of babies and toddlers
• To reflect upon the usefulness of the planning in your setting