There are seven areas of learning and development that set out what providers must teach the children in their settings. All areas of learning and development are important and inter-connected.

Three prime areas are particularly important for learning and forming relationships. They build a foundation for children to thrive and provide the basis for learning in all areas.

These are the prime areas:

• Communication and language
• Physical development
• Personal, social and emotional development

There are also four specific areas of learning, which help strengthen and develop the three prime areas, and ignite children’s curiosity and enthusiasm.

The specific areas are:

• Literacy
• Mathematics
• Understanding the world
• Expressive arts and design