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Introducing early mapping skills through play-based exploration
This Geography scheme of work teacher video supports the delivery of activities, under the Understanding the World area of learning. It provides practical guidance on helping Reception children build early geographical understanding through hands-on, meaningful experiences. The video explores how children begin to develop an awareness of maps by engaging with the world around them from navigating toy cars across playmats to observing adults using digital maps. It explains how the unit’s activities support children in recognising common map features, becoming more familiar with their local area, and starting to create simple maps of their own.
Teachers are encouraged to support vocabulary development and model new skills, while also allowing children to extend their learning through continuous provision. Suggestions include using block play to build landmarks, junk modelling to create homes, or using real map cuttings in creative areas to make brochures or signs.
This video is part of Kapow Primary’s Reception (EYFS) Geography resources, designed to help you embed geography through play and purposeful interaction.
