In the UK, geography in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is not taught as a discrete subject. Instead, it is embedded within the Understanding the World area of learning and driven by play-based activities, continuous provision, and first-hand experiences. 

The EYFS curriculum, supported by frameworks like Development Matters, focusses on building foundational geographical skills and awareness in the following key areas: 

1. Locational Knowledge and Mapping

• Understanding Space: Children develop early map skills by drawing simple maps of familiar routes, such as their walk to school or a treasure hunt in the playground. 
• Positional Language: They learn spatial awareness using directional vocabulary like in front of, behind, on top, under, near, and far. 
• The Wider World: Children begin to learn that there are other countries and talk about differences they have seen in photos, stories, or through personal travel. 

2. Physical and Human Features

• Local Environments: Children explore their immediate school grounds and local community, identifying and naming human and physical features (e.g., houses, shops, parks, trees, and hills). 
• The Natural World: A major focus is on observing the natural environment, noticing animals and plants in the school setting, and exploring changes. 

3. Weather and Seasons

• Seasonal Changes: Children learn to identify and describe the weather associated with different seasons in the UK (e.g., observing rain, snow, and sunny days).
• Environment: They begin to understand the importance of respecting and caring for the natural environment and living things.