EYFS

Building Brilliant Boys: Understanding Brains, Play and Adult Engagement


This course examines how brain development, gender expectations and environment influence boys' play, learning and behaviour in EYFS. It explores research, debunks myths and highlights how active, sensory-rich play strengthens neural pathways, executive function and self-regulation.

A key focus is on creating enabling environments: balancing movement-friendly and cozy spaces, indoors and out, and exploring how high-action play supports thinking skills, social development and emotional regulation.
The course also addresses social stereotypes, offering strategies to challenge limiting norms, nurture empathy and language, and recognise authentic interests beyond gendered patterns.

Participants will leave confident in designing environments and adult roles that promote boys' engagement, creativity, emotional growth and inclusive play, becoming active partners in their learning.
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Tracie Butterfill

1.5 Hours

Online Course

By completing this course, you will gain an understanding of: 

challenging biological myths – understand that brain differences at birth are minimal; instead, focus on how educator assumptions and gender stereotypes can unintentionally limit a child's self-perception and achievement;
the power of ‘environment’ – recognise that neurodevelopment is shaped more by early experiences, adult interactions and sensory-rich learning environments than by biology alone;
movement-based learning – support self-regulation and executive function by valuing movement, outdoor learning and ‘active’ play as essential tools for engagement, particularly for boys;
purposeful play strategies – use play-based approaches, including construction, role play and superhero play, to systematically build language, problem-solving and social-emotional skills;
high-quality interactions – foster confidence and curiosity through ‘sustained shared thinking’, following the child’s lead and intentionally expanding their vocabulary in everyday practice.

Course contents

Written by Tracie Butterfill

As the current National Lead for Early Years (PVI and Childminders) and Families (0-2 year olds), and with over 30 years of experience in the early years sector, Tracie is passionate about early childhood education and dedicated to improving outcomes for all children. She holds Early Years Professional Status (EYPS), a BA in Early Childhood Studies and is a qualified Mental Health First Aider.

Tracie has held a wide variety of roles, including Regional Trainer within the charity sector, Programme Manager for a government-funded professional development programme, Higher Education Lecturer, School Trustee and Vice-Chair of Governing Body (primary), Local Authority Early Years Improvement and Standards Adviser and Early Years Equality and Inclusion Adviser, in addition to previously holding various roles within PVI settings.

Through collaborative working, innovative support and training, and ensuring high aspirations for all, Tracie remains committed to her goal of improving outcomes for every child.
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