Discuss the role of the early years practitioner in planning provision to meet the needs of the child.

This essay aims to explore the role of the early years practitioner in planning provision to meet the needs of the child, simultaneously applying theoretical research and professional practice. In addition to this, making appropriate links to the Early Years Foundation Stage and using pertinent examples to support the child’s needs.

In order to be a successful early years practitioner, they should be able to demonstrate key skills, these include showing that they are patient, considerate, caring, flexible and consistent. What’s more, it is imperative that ‘every practitioner working with young children needs a sound and thorough
By recognizing ‘Parents as partners’, which is one of the key commitments in the EYFS principles of ’Positive relationships’ the practitioner will be more likely to respect the diversity of each family by valuing them, also being welcoming and communicating effectively and making themselves approachable to parents, building up a positive rapport with parents. This will be most beneficial to the practitioner in demonstrating anti -discriminatory practice regardless of the ethnical, cultural or social construction of the setting. In addition, Bruce (2010, pg.112) identifies that ‘practitioners should ensure that all children feel included, secure and valued. They must build positive relationships with parents in order to work effectively with them and their children’.
Bruce goes on to further identify the importance of a positive relationship between the parents and the practitioner, in order to maximise the child’s holistic development.
With regards to parents, some may lack the confidence to approach practitioners about any queries or qualms they may have about their child. The importance of the practitioner-parent relationship is highlighted by Nutbrown (2006, p.148) stating that ‘Parents need to be able to ask why certain practices are adopted and worker must be able to articulate their reasons for doing things. Working in the interests of children means parents and