definition of early years?

[saro87]

hi does anyone know where i can find a definition of early years given by the goverment or perhaps a theorist?i want it as an opener to my essay!!thanks to anyone who can help!

[Ruthierhyme]

Hi, I've a feeling this will vary depending whose perspective/country you're looking at it from.

CWDC use their EYPS as quality assurance for early years, which they see as the under 5s.

The EYfs targets children under 6.
Sweden's early years are under 7.
Children in wales statement for under 8s Wales' early years information flying start & foundation phase under 3s & under 7s.

And from Scotland's early years framework:

Early years and early intervention
For the purposes of this framework, we are defining early years as pre-birth to 8 years old. This broad definition of early years is a recognition of the importance of pregnancy in influencing outcomes and that the transition into primary school is a critical period in children’s lives. Many aspects of this framework are equally relevant to children beyond the age of 8.

Source The Early years framework

EY in life can apply to a time frame that becomes quantifiable enough for reflection.

Personally I tend to use 'early years in reference to provision & children under the age of 8 years. This is more to do with working alongside the regulation & guidance provided by the Under 8s welfare team way back when - daycare standards. Nowadays I still support an under 8 approach based on what I read about the educational systems exposed as failing individuals & groups.

Hth xx