The Complete Play Schemas Bundle
A framework for understanding how children learn through repeated patterns of play.
What this is for
You're mentally full. You're holding observations, routines, safeguarding, parental communication, and the constant feeling that you should be doing more.
These questions sit with most practitioners. They sit quietly, underneath everything else. And they're exhausting.
This bundle doesn't fix the system. What it does do is help you trust your own professional judgment again.
What you get
Nine downloadable PDF guides covering all nine play schemas. Each guide includes 5 purposeful play invitations and 20 visual examples of children exploring that schema. Designed for early years practitioners, childminders, and anyone supporting young children's learning.
Inside every schema pack
Each guide follows the same thoughtful structure, making it easy to find what you need when you need it.
✦ Understanding the Schema
- What it is — Clear explanation of the pattern children are exploring
- What it looks like — Observable behaviors in play
- What it sounds like — Language and thinking children express
- Why it matters — Developmental importance and learning connections
✦ Framework Connections
- EYFS links — How schematic play supports development across learning areas
- Characteristics of Effective Learning — Connections to playing & exploring, active learning, and creating & thinking critically
✦ Practical Guidance
- The adult's role — How to support through observation and responsiveness
- 5 play invitations — Achievable, adaptable ideas with visual inspiration
- Open-ended questions — Prompts for sustained shared thinking
✦ Reflection & Extension
- If this looks challenging — Guidance when children feel frustrated
- What to offer next — Ideas for deepening learning
- Staff reflection prompts — Questions for team discussion
45 Play Invitations That Actually Work
Five invitations per schema, designed to be achievable in real settings—no big budgets or specialist equipment required. Each one helps you extend play meaningfully while keeping children in control of their learning.
180 Visual Examples
Four visual examples for every invitation, showing you exactly what schema-driven play looks like in real environments. Stop guessing. Start recognising the patterns.
Professional Confidence in Your Practice
Walk into your setting knowing why that child is lining up cars, what they're learning when they climb, and how to respond with intention instead of interruption. Trust your judgment again.
Get instant access
Instant digital download. 45 invitations and 180 examples across all 9 schemas.
Secure payment via Stripe. Instant access to all resources.
Common questions
What this won't do
This bundle won't solve systemic problems in early years. It won't make management less demanding. It won't guarantee that inspectors will be impressed by your setting.
What it will do is help you feel more confident in your own professional judgment. It will give you language for what you're already noticing. And it will help you respond to children's play with intention, not guesswork.