Why the Early Years Matter

Our early years of life are an unparalleled period of growth and discovery, where brain development accelerates at a remarkable rate. During early childhood, every interaction, experience, and playful moment contributes to lifelong learning and parents are their children’s first and most important educators. Supporting early learning and development is crucial; it shapes the foundation for emotional, social, and cognitive skills that carry us forward into adulthood.

The Early Years team at Save the Children UK have been working hard to develop an Early Years Knowledge Bank. This is a set of free resources, designed to inform and inspire early years practice, research and advocacy. So far, the bank has offered key insights across three core themes: Young Children's Voices, the Importance of Early Years, and the Impact of COVID-19 on Young Children.

The team are excited to announce that they are launching their fourth and final theme on Play. But why is play important? And how can we support all children in having the time, space and permission to play?