‘Ourselves and our families’ is a popular theme in foundation settings and Reception classes. It is often undertaken at the beginning of the academic year, although it can be taught later when teachers have a better understanding of children’s home circumstances. This theme can provide many opportunities for children to develop their understanding of the past.

Curriculum links

Activities and experiences could support children being able to ‘talk about past and present events in their own lives and in the lives of family members’ and knowing about ‘similarities and differences between themselves and others, and among families, communities and traditions’. These statements form part of the Early Learning  Goal relating to Understanding theWorld: people and communities...