Orientation Schema | EYFS

EYFS definition

An orientation schema is a repeated interest in seeing or experiencing things from different positions and viewpoints. In the EYFS, a child might look beneath an object, turn a familiar toy upside down or change their own position to explore how something appears.

Exploring a different viewpoint

The focus is on position and perspective: what changes when something is viewed from underneath, behind, above or at another angle? Children may move themselves, move an object or use a mirror to explore.

This is related to spatial awareness. It differs in emphasis from a rotation schema, where the repeated interest centres on turning or spinning. The same episode of play can include both.

What might it look like in practice?

  • A baby watches a familiar object as an adult slowly changes its position in response to their attention.
  • A toddler turns a toy over and looks closely at its underside.
  • A child lies on the floor to look through an opening in their construction, then views it from above.

A child might show what they notice through looking, gestures, movement or words. Talking about the experience is one possible part of the play, not a requirement.

Making viewpoints accessible

Adults may provide suitable mirrors, objects that can be handled and spaces where children can safely change position. An object can be moved to offer a different view for a child who cannot easily move themselves.

Repeated observation helps adults consider the child’s interest. One upside-down look does not establish a schema, and orientation is not a developmental checklist or a label for the child.

Further Guidance | Related Documents

Explore resources connected with this term. Each card identifies the resource’s intended age group and access type.

Highlighted resource

Scroll sideways, focus the list and use your arrow keys, or use the buttons.

Find practical resources for your setting

Start with an age gateway

Useful routes into practice

Explore more of the site

Return to the top ↑ · Back to the EYFS glossary

In Tags