bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Talking sex in Surrey
Authors: Langhorne Janet
Published: May 2014

The theme and title of this year's RCN Practice Nurse Conference, ‘Sex in Surrey: Health for life’, has provoked some interesting comments, but we hope that this will not deter you from joining us for what promises to be a most interesting and inspiring event. Over the last 4 years the conference committee has worked together to present 3 days of talks with a sexual health theme related holistically to the new GMS contract, which we hope will update and inspire you. Our venue is the University of Surrey, on the edge of Guildford town centre, which is easily accessible.
Finding ways to reduce hazardous waists
Authors: DeVille-Almond Jane
Published: May 2014

Jane DeVille-Almond previews National Men's HealthWeek (13–19 June) and a Men's Health Forum conference on weight management
Prophylaxis after sexual exposure to HIV
Authors: Peate Ian
Published: May 2014

Ian Peate considers the potential benefits of prophylaxis with antiretroviral therapies following sexual exposure to HIV
Changes to cervical screening
Authors: Hurst Aileen
Published: May 2014

In the first of a new series on colposcopy, Aileen Hurst highlights new guidelines for cervical screening call and recall, and discusses the risks of overtreatment in Jennifer's case
Malignant melanoma
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

A fair-haired, blue-eyed, 73-year-old man had been admitted to hospital about 10 days earlier with a chest infection. The doctor had noticed a mole over his right shoulder blade when he examined him (Figure 1).
Statins in South Asian people
Authors: Jenkins Gill
Published: May 2014

Arpit is sceptical about the value of statins. Dr Gill Jenkins discusses the management of lipids in the South Asian population living in Britain, using Arpits case as an example.
The management of the overactive bladder
Authors: McCrimmon Fiona
Published: May 2014

Fiona McCrimmon discusses the diagnosis and management of overactive bladder, a problem particularly prevalent in women and older people
Managing psychosocial impacts of diabetes
Authors: Clark Marie C
Published: May 2014

Marie Clark argues that giving a diagnosis of diabetes is a critical moment in the patient's journey and has important consequences for longterm management
Anne Hamerton: Running the practice
Authors: Hamerton Anne
Published: May 2014

Practice nurse Anne Hamerton is a company director of her practice. She spoke to Liam Benison about her role and plans for change
One practice's solution to adolescents' needs
Authors: Carr Nancye
Published: May 2014

Nancye Carr considers adolescents' needs for primary health care and describes how a clinic was set up to address the expressed needs of adolescents
Spotting meningitis and septicaemia early
Authors: Glennie Linda , Ninis Nelly , Bailey Linda , Diggle Linda
Published: May 2014

Linda Glennie, Nelly Ninis, Linda Bailey and Linda Diggle explain why it is so important to recognize the signs of meningitis and septicaemia as early as possible, and how to go about it
Barriers to insulin initiation in primary care
Authors: Leivesley Kate
Published: May 2014

Kate Leivesley investigates the factors that lead to general practices initiating insulin therapy in few patients with type 2 diabetes
Adverse reactions to topical steroids
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

Ingested drugs are not the only ones to cause adverse effects. Topical preparations such as the many creams, ointments, gels, lotions, eye and nasal drops, and sprays that are prescribed or acquired over the counter may also cause adverse reactions. These may result in allergic reactions, localized irritant reactions to the substance, or exacerbation of underlying infections. Often preparations are used inappropriately by a patient who happens to have a tube of ointment in the cupboard or buys a tube in ignorance from the local pharmacy (Davies, 2001).
An opportunity to improve self-care
Authors: Stone Helena , Lynall Anna
Published: May 2014

Helena Stone and Anna Lynall explain the aims of a national programme to help practice nurses ensure more effective self-care by patients
Practice nurses' terms and conditions survey
Authors: Carrier Judith , Brassey Jon
Published: May 2014

Practice Nursing would like to thank all those who took the time to complete our survey of practice nurses' terms and conditions, conducted in conjunction with the Royal College of Nursing. The data from this survey is now being collated and analysed, and we hope to publish the results in the November issue of Practice Nursing. Your contribution to this study will help improve the understanding of the diverse employment conditions experienced by nurses working in general practice around the UK, and, it is hoped, help improve those conditions.
Forging practice with a public health philosophy
Authors: McKinnon John
Published: May 2014

While the roots and principles of public health go back to the 19th century, health professionals in the 21st century face a society focused on life-style choices and beset with inequalities. John McKinnon considers the implications for nursing practice
Orbital cellulitis
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

The 2-year-old child pictured in Figure 1 had had a cold for a few days. During the night he had become more unwell, had developed a fever, and his parents had noticed that there was swelling and redness around the left eye. Because the symptoms seemed to be developing rapidly, they called the after-hours service of their general practice.
Toolkit helps with career decisions
Authors: Cross Sue
Published: May 2014

Sue Cross updates readers on the latest initiatives from the Working in Partnership Programme.
Prevalence of unknown asthma and COPD in people with persistent or recurrent cough
Authors: Marklund B , Tunsäter A , Eggertsen R , Fridlund B
Published: May 2014

Coughing is the most common symptom in people attending primary health care. Because the prevalence of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is not well known, the aim of this study was to establish the prevalence of unknown asthma and COPD in people consulting for a persistent or recurrent cough in primary health care in Sweden. Seventy-two adult patients were recruited consecutively at an acute consultation with a medical history of a persistent or recurrent cough. A medical history and a physical examination were performed according to a standardized form. Four patients (6%) fulfilled the criteria for asthma and five (7%) for COPD. The prevalence of asthma in this sample was less than that in western countries generally. These findings highlight the importance of people, especially women and smokers, with persistent or recurrent cough being carefully and promptly assessed with standardized measures including spirometry and repeated peak expiratory flow measurements. This knowledge should be conveyed to the general public as well as to primary health professionals.
Clinical Q&A
Authors: Carrier Judith , Brassey Jon
Published: May 2014

Is there any evidence to support the use of duct tape as a treatment for verrucas?
Chlamydia: Recognition and management
Authors: Peate Ian
Published: May 2014

Ian Peate reviews the detection and treatment of Chlamydia and argues that general practice can provide effective screening
Osteoporosis: The lifelong risks
Authors: Hardiman Henriette
Published: May 2014

Henriette Hardiman investigates the risks and management of osteoporosis and considers the best advice for Mrs Jones and Mrs Wilson
Ophthalmic herpes zoster
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

Mrs M arrived at the surgery with a history of left sided head and face pain for 6 days and the development of a rash over her right forehead and round the eye for the last couple of days. On examination there was a blistering rash, with some crusting over the areas, together with some inflammation of the left eye.
The nipple
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

Greater awareness of breast cancer and the benefits of early diagnosis and treatment has encouraged women to perform regular breast self-examination. Women should be encouraged to seek advice about any abnormal findings from health professionals.
The new Green Book
Authors: Noakes Karen , Yarwood Jo , Salisbury David
Published: May 2014

Karen Noakes, Jo Yarwood and David Salisbury highlight the changes to the Green Book, which has been fully updated and reissued in its latest edition
Jane Chiodini: Travel and technology
Authors: Chiodini Jane
Published: May 2014

Jane Chiodini's love for travel health has recently been recognized with two fellowships. She spoke to Rosalind Hill about her career
Lifestyle: How it impacts on long-term diseases
Authors: Baic Sue
Published: May 2014

Changes in diet and lifestyle can help prevent diabetes and other long-term diseases. Sue Baic investigates
Haematuria
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

Mary was a fit, healthy 39-year-old, a happy housewife, mother of two young boys and holding down a job. One morning she was surprised and shocked to see blood in her urine. She had noticed a little frequency of micturition in the previous few days but she had no pain, no dysuria and felt well.
Professionalization in new primary care roles
Authors: Abbott Stephen , Dadabhoy Shahid , Dalphinis Julie , Hill Marie , Smith Richard
Published: May 2014

New clinical roles are being developed in the NHS across existing professional boundaries. This paper considers the similarities and differences between three roles in primary care: the new roles of physician assistant and advanced nurse practitioner, and the established role of GP. It draws on a process evaluation of a pilot conducted by a primary care trust developing the physician assistant role. Semi-structured interviews with trainee physician assistants revealed different perceptions of the use of nursing and medical models in the physician assistant role. Physician assistant trainees emphasized the similarities of medical and nursing models, while GP mentors emphasized the new skills that physician assistants needed: lateral thinking, rapid differential diagnoses and treatment plans. One view was that intuition (rapid access of tacit knowledge) is important but cannot be acquired quickly. In the future, physician assistant trainees will be science graduates rather than, as in this pilot, nurses. The physician assistant role will therefore help the NHS address workforce shortages by drawing on a larger segment of the labour market than at present.
The new BCG regime
Authors: Crisp Debbie
Published: May 2014

Debbie Crisp looks at the new targeted programme for the BCG vaccination and explains the rationale behind the changes
Challenges in abortion care for practice nurses
Authors: Lipp Allyson
Published: May 2014

Abortion is a contentious issue, but there is now opportunity for practice nurses to become involved in this procedure. Allyson Lipp discusses the implications.
Celebrating 25 years of practice nursing in Cardiff
Authors: Dudeney Jane
Published: May 2014

Practice nurses have overcome many challenges in the past 25 years, and numbers have soared. Jane Dudeney reports on the achievements and debates at this year's RCN practice nurse conference
Mentoring student nurses in the practice
Authors: Carr Jacqui
Published: May 2014

Jacqui Carr reflects on the experience of being a student nurse mentor in general practice and outlines the benefits of mentoring for the practice nurse's professional career and the general practice workforce
Collaborating for positive education
Authors: Timmins Sue , Marsh Judith , Daly Rachel
Published: May 2014

A practice nurse conference for nurses across Kent and Medway took a collaborative approach to organization and education
Agranulocytosis
Authors: Mulryan Chris
Published: May 2014

Hyperthyroidism is a relatively common condition seen in primary care. Antithyroid drugs are a popular initial therapy; carbimazole is the most commonly used, with propylthiouracil as an alternative. While these drugs are largely effective they are associated with agranulocytosis, which is a particularly serious side effect. Antithyroid drug-associated agranulocytosis is an important condition that has the potential to be rapidly life threatening if unrecognized and untreated.
Women's experience of commercial weight−loss programmes
Authors: Wickett Hilary , Fargher Emily
Published: May 2014

Aim: To explore how female participants viewed commercial weight-management programmes (CWMPs) and how the programmes compare to NICE guidelines. Method: The sample comprised 12 female volunteers who were university employees and had attended a CWMP in the last 5 years. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted. Results: The calculation of target weights and rate of weight loss encouraged varied between programmes. Participants reported choosing lower calorie options and reducing portion sizes while adhering to the CWMP diet. There was some evidence that participants ate large quantities of 'unlimited' foods. Participants were uncomfortable with the promotion of branded products at CWMP meetings. All participants valued the weigh-in and felt accountable to the individual weighing them. The meetings included behaviour-change techniques, including group discussions, but the majority of participants elected to avoid these elements. Conclusions: This study provides evidence that CWMPs vary in their accordance with national guidelines. The extent to which CWMPs enable adults to manage their weight in the long term warrants further study.
Practice nurses acknowledged for improving patient care
Authors: Howie Kate
Published: May 2014

The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) Practice Nurses Association (PNA) was delighted that the National Association of Primary Care hosted our Nursing Awards at its Gala Dinner Awards evening on 20 October as part of the NAPC annual conference.
Swelling of the groin in children
Authors: Paul Siba P , Henning Sarah
Published: May 2014

This case study presents JM, a 14-month-old toddler, who was normally fit and healthy. He had been generally miserable for 2 days and was suffering from a fever. His parents had noticed a swelling in his groin 2 hours earlier. His immunizations were up to date. After consultation with his general practice, JM was taken to the local hospital's accident and emergency department.
Pelvic floor dysfunction: management strategies
Authors: Davis Kathy
Published: May 2014

Women with uncomplicated symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction should initially be treated conservatively. Kathy Davis presents an overview of the key conservative management strategies recommended as firstline treatments of choice
Legal considerations in the care of people living with diabetes
Authors: Smyth Dion , Smyth Theresa
Published: May 2014

Dion Smyth and Theresa Smyth identify the importance of health professionals knowing the law so that they can provide appropriate professional care and also defend their actions where necessary
Problems with acne vulgaris in adolescence
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

Acne vulgaris is an inflammatory condition that affects teenagers and young adults. Jean Watkins discusses the adverse effects of this condition
Assessing and managing persistent thrush
Authors: Duncan Deborah
Published: May 2014

Deborah Duncan considers the impact of having the painful and embarrassing complaint of persistent thrush
Prescribing female contraception in practice
Authors: Dilks Alyson
Published: May 2014

When choosing contraception, a woman’s lifestyle, individual needs and acceptability of the method all need to be considered. Alyson Dilks explores the advantages and disadvantages of the available options
Revised competences for nurses in travel health medicine
Authors: Grieve Sandra
Published: May 2014

Travel medicine is an expanding area of practice. Sandra Grieve outlines some resources available for practice nurses working in travel health medicine
Bariatric surgery: a long-term solution to managing diabesity
Authors: Rajeswaran Chinnadorai , Shaikh Rayaan , Mohammad Misbah
Published: May 2014

Diabesity is a new term that describes obese individuals with diabetes. Chinnadorai Rajeswaran, Rayaan Shaikh and Misbah Mohammad discuss the effectiveness of bariatric surgery in managing these two chronic diseases
Retiring for ill-health
Authors: King Ian
Published: May 2014

Ian King gives two examples of how the RCN member support services team can help a practice nurse when illness makes early retirement necessary
Sexual health promotion for travellers within primary care
Authors: Scott Anne
Published: May 2014

Travel abroad has been associated with unplanned sexual intercourse and sexually transmitted infections. Anne Scott looks at influences on the traveller's sexual behaviour and the value of sexual health promotion
Venetia Lawrence: Going places
Authors: Lawrence Venetia
Published: May 2014

Venetia Lawrence talks about her work in a travel clinic with a vision, and makes some suggestions for practice nurses interested in travel medicine
Developing a COPD stratification scoring tool
Authors: Newey Alison
Published: May 2014

Background:

With a predicted increase in the prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (World Health Organization, 2013), the nursing management of this long-term condition needs to be adapted to the varying degrees of disability that may present. With an increasing number of patients being referred to the respiratory team for community COPD management, a need for a change in working practice was recognized.

Aim:

A stratification scoring tool was developed to assess the impact of COPD on a patient's daily life and indicate the individual level of care needed.

Method:

Multidisciplinary team working was adopted to capture the factors that impact upon a patient with COPD.

Results:

The introduction of stratified disease management for an increasing caseload of patients has enabled care to be focused according to patient dependency. Improved time management also allowed for the re-establishment of other areas of respiratory care provision.

Conclusions:

Symptoms of COPD often limit patients’ daily activities. The most troublesome symptoms may be addressed through the application of a COPD stratification scoring tool.
Oxygen delivery devices: exploring the options
Authors: Murphie Phyllis
Published: May 2014

Phyllis Murphie reviews the technological innovations in long-term oxygen therapy, offering an outline of the delivery systems that are currently available in practice
Using the levonorgestrel intrauterine system
Authors: Perry Margaret
Published: May 2014

Margaret Perry provides an overview of the levonorgestrel intrauterine system and identifies the role practice nurses can play in helping women choose the most suitable contraceptive method
The nation's expanding waistline
Authors: Peate Ian
Published: May 2014

Research shows that more than half of the population in England will be obese by 2050. Ian Peate calls for adjustments to be made to the Quality and Outcomes Framework to manage obesity more efficiently
Easter eggstravaganza!
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

Here are three different ways of decorating eggs to celebrate spring and Easter that should appeal to all ages. You will need to help younger children but older ones may be able to follow the instructions on their own
Helping shy children to join in
Authors: O’Dell Lindsay
Published: May 2014

Why are some children bold in new situations whereas others find them difficult? It is partly to do with the structure of the brain, but children can be taught how to be more confident and socially skilled. Lindsay O’Dell looks at the psychology of shyness and making friends
Dealing with disobedience
Authors: Tassoni Penny
Published: May 2014

Some children who misbehave are looking for attention, some may be deliberately testing the boundaries and others are simply too young to understand the consequences of their actions. Penny Tassoni looks at how to cope in testing times
Words you need to know: Motor skills
Authors: Stevens Judith
Published: May 2014

If you are going to support children’s physical development, you need to know something about how their bodies grow and develop and how they become aware of what they can do with them. Judith Stevens explains what is meant by gross and fine motor skills
Loopy ‘lympics: silly sports for summer
Authors: Donbavand Tommy
Published: May 2014

With the Olympics upon us, this is a great time to get out in the garden or local park for some sporting silliness! All you need are a few simple props – which the children can enjoy making – and you’re ready for fun! So, be a sport and treat your children to an afternoon of eccentric events!
Understanding puberty
Authors: Coleman John
Published: May 2014

Puberty is a complicated process, involving many different changes, and if you care for older children you need to know how you can be most helpful to them as they go through this time of change, says John Coleman
Why children have tantrums and how to cope
Authors: O’Dell Lindsay
Published: May 2014

Tantrums are a natural and normal part of early childhood but that doesn’t make them any easier to handle. Lindsay O’Dell suggests some strategies for dealing with them and some ideas for preventing them
Words you need to know: Autistic spectrum disorder
Authors: Hardcastle Lindy
Published: May 2014

What is autism? How do you know if a child in your care has autism? Who can offer you, the child and their family support? Lindy Hardcastle looks at autistic spectrum disorders and answers these questions for you
Make a winter wonderland
Authors: Warner Maureen
Published: May 2014

November can be a dismal month. Forget the mists and fog and enjoy a few activities that look forward to winter, says Maureen Warner. Children of all ages can work together to make this winter snow scene
Children don’t need words to tell you something
Authors: Lindon Jennie
Published: May 2014

Babies can hold conversations long before they can say their first words. You just need to realise that they are communicating, says Jennie Lindon
Encouraging children to eat more fruit and vegetables
Authors: Wolman Julia
Published: May 2014

Health experts advise eating at least five portions of fruit and vegetables a day to reduce risks of heart disease, stroke and cancer. But some children turn their noses up at anything green. What can you do? Julia Wolman explains
Working with parents: Sharing information
Authors: Walker Miranda
Published: May 2014

This is the second in a three-part guide to working with parents and carers. Last month we looked at the initial information you should give them. This month we focus on good practice in sharing information on an ongoing basis
Choosing books for children
Authors: White Hilary
Published: May 2014

There are so many picture books to choose from in the library or the book shop, it can be difficult to know where to begin! Until they are old enough to make their own choices, use the following guidelines to select good books for the children in your care
Words you need to know: Schema
Authors: Lindon Jennie
Published: May 2014

A schema is a pattern of actions that a baby, toddler or young child repeats, with variations, as their favourite way to explore their immediate environment. Jennie Lindon explains
How to have fun on the farm
Authors: Renouf Helen
Published: May 2014

A trip to a farm can be an exciting adventure for children of all ages, and adults too. There is so much to discover, experience and learn about, says Helen Renouf
Why children want to ‘Do it myself’
Authors: Lindon Jennie
Published: May 2014

It takes time for young children to practise the many skills of self-reliance, but their wish to take part starts very young. Jennie Lindon explains
How to promote your business
Authors: Renouf Helen
Published: May 2014

Most childcarers look after children for love not money but you are running a business and even if you don’t have vacancies it’s important to promote what you do and raise your profile and professionalism in the local community
Fire safety procedures
Authors: Walker Miranda
Published: May 2014

When drawing up fire safety procedures, you should take the advice of fire safety officers. Miranda Walker talks you through the registration process and how to ensure ongoing compliance
Your garden: plants for all seasons
Authors: Youngman Angela
Published: May 2014

In our March issue, Angela Youngman gave some practical pointers for getting started with children in the garden. Here she tells you what to plant to bring your garden to life all year round
Learning to look after plants
Authors: Jackson Caroline , Miller Collette
Published: May 2014

This week your child has been planting vegetable tops and seeds to help them learn about how things grow. You can build on this at home by encouraging them to water your household plants
Back to sleep, front to play, sit to speak
Authors: Kirby Amanda
Published: May 2014

Sit to speak, prone to play and supine to sleep - SPS for short - is a phrase coined by Dr Amanda Kirby to help carers remember the importance of varying play positions with babies and young children. Here she explains the thinking behind it
Leadership skills: Motivating your staff
Authors: Pring Martin
Published: May 2014

The staff are the most important input to quality in any service. And how you relate to them and motivate them might be the most important job you do as a manager. Martin Pring explains
Happy new you!
Authors: Todd Beverley
Published: May 2014

Mark the start of a new year with a selection of activities to keep children organised throughout the coming months
Managing the first hour of the day
Authors: Henry Laura
Published: May 2014

Last year Ofsted published a report called Early Doors: experiences for children in day care during the first hour of the day. It said that too many nurseries provided inadequate care and that there were many missed learning opportunities for children at the start of the day. Laura Henry looks at how this issue can be addressed
Threadworm infection: spotting the signs
Authors: Green Tina
Published: May 2014

Threadworm Action Month in September could make it easier for parents to discuss a subject that they find embarrassing. Tina Green answers some of the common questions they - and you - might want to ask
Count the days to Christmas!
Authors: Todd Beverley
Published: May 2014

Kick start your Christmas preparations with these clever Advent ideas. Just add excited children for a fun-filled craft session to get them in the festive spirit
Let it snow!
Authors: Jackson Caroline , Miller Collette
Published: May 2014

Your child may never have seen snow before. All the more reason to be prepared to make the most of it if it does arrive. You’re never too young to share the magic!
Playing with sand
Authors: Barber Jenny
Published: May 2014

Sand does not have to be in a large sand tray with brightly coloured plastic resources. It has so much more to offer and can be presented in a variety of formats. Take the lead from children and encourage them to develop their ideas by responding to their interests and spontaneity, says Jenny Barber
What is it like to be a child with you?
Authors: Chappell Rebecca
Published: May 2014

Whatever the age of the children you care for, you are in control of how they spend their time. Carry out this simple audit. It will either confirm that you are happy with how you spend your days together or help you to make significant changes to their routine
How safe is your kitchen?
Authors: Griffin Sue
Published: May 2014

What goes on in the kitchen of your childminding setting? Children eating meals together – and helping to prepare food and clear up afterwards? Play activities, especially some of the messy ones? Great! But how do you make sure it’s a safe place for children to be? Sue Griffin offers a few reminders
Making marks with chalk
Authors: Jackson Caroline , Miller Collette
Published: May 2014

Mark making is fun and everyone can join in whether they understand the purpose of the activity or not. Most settings provide opportunities for children to make marks on a daily basis but sometimes you need some fresh ideas – chalk could be just the thing to try and is safe for all children to use
Avoiding battles over food
Authors: Tassoni Penny
Published: May 2014

In what has been dubbed the ‘obesity epidemic’, there is a huge drive to encourage children to eat healthily. So what do you do when a five-year-old spits out their vegetables and calls them ‘disgusting’ or when a three-year-old tries to stick a piece of carrot up their nose? Penny Tassoni offers advice
Birth to Three Matters: A strong child
Authors: Walker Miranda
Published: May 2014

Miranda Walker starts the first of a four-part series on Birth to Three Matters with a look at the structure of the framework, and how you can use it as a tool to inform your planning, assessing and practical work. She then focuses in detail on the first aspect, ‘A strong child’
Coping with disruptions and distractions
Authors: Riddall-Leech Sheila
Published: May 2014

Some children do not seem to be aware of the noise that they are making and the effect it can have on others. Others appear to gain some satisfaction from distracting others and the attention they receive as a result. Sheila Riddall-Leech gives examples
Father’s Day cards
Authors: Todd Beverley
Published: May 2014

Help the children in your care to show dad (or a favourite uncle, older brother or grandfather) how much they appreciate him with this great selection of masculine projects
How television can influence behaviour
Authors: Riddall-Leech Sheila
Published: May 2014

Have you noticed your children behaving differently after watching television? Perhaps they’ve witnessed a violent event or tragedy on the news, an incident in a football match or just seen an advert for a new toy. Sheila Riddall-Leech explores the powerful influence of the media
Too many toys?
Authors: Pearson Linzi
Published: May 2014

Do you feel your house is disappearing in a sea of toys and equipment? It is important for children to have choice, but that does not mean having everything all the time. Linzi Pearson shares some ideas and suggestions on managing your resources
School rules
Authors: Todd Beverley
Published: May 2014

Take the children in your care on a voyage of self discovery with a selection of projects that allow them to think more deeply about their school environment. Even better, all the activities can be added to in later sessions for easier future planning
When babies cry
Authors: Tassoni Penny
Published: May 2014

Some child experts say that babies should never be left to cry, others that picking babies up prompts them to cry more. So what should you do when a baby cries?
Summer fun with shells
Authors: Todd Beverley
Published: May 2014

Whether they are holidaying at home or away, help children to make the most of the long, summer days with a set of themed activities
Messy Play!
Authors: Fawcett Beverly
Published: May 2014

RAF Leeming childminders support group got together last holidays and organised various ‘play days’. The first of these was a ‘messy play’ session, which was thoroughly enjoyed by both children and adults alike!.
My job Director of Children’s Workforce Devlopment, NCMA – Charles Rice
Authors: Rice Charles
Published: May 2014

I have a real passion for working with children, and immense respect for the childcarers who look after them. I started out as a graphic designer, but when I became a single dad, it became impossible to find childcare to fit in with my working hours. I decided to become a childminder in 1977, so that I could look after my children and make a living at the same time. I found I really enjoyed working with children, I started working in a playgroup as well as childminding. I then went on to establish a mobile Toy Library – I wanted to work with childminders to promote their understanding of play-based learning.
Card sharp
Authors: Donbavand Tommy
Published: May 2014

Too young for cards? Tommy Donbavand reveals some games for younger children.
Celebrating Eid
Authors: Raheem Debbie
Published: May 2014

Debbie Raheem suggests some activity ideas for celebrating Eid with the Muslim children in your care and introducing the festival to non-Muslims.
Break the bed-wetting taboo
Authors: MacKinlay Dorothy
Published: May 2014

Let’s make the stigma of bed-wetting a thing of the past, says Dot MacKinlay as she explains how common it is, why it happens and what can be done to help.
Halloween horrors!
Authors: Green Christine
Published: May 2014

Whether going to an organised party or having some family fun, children love celebrating Halloween. What other time of the year can they dress up in the scariest of outfits and eat gruesome sounding foods? So, if you are looking for some fun ideas and activities to do this Halloween read on...
Flying flags
Authors: Jackson Caroline , Miller Collette
Published: May 2014

This activity can be carried out either inside or out. On a nice windy day, set out your sand trough in a safe outside area for the children to explore.
Caring for children with epilepsy
Authors: Baker Rachel
Published: May 2014

Epilepsy is more common than most people realise. Rachel Baker gives some pointers on what to do if you care for a child with epilepsy.
Baa baa black sheep...
Authors: Jackson Caroline , Miller Collette
Published: May 2014

Nursery rhyme role-play.
Caring for children with allergies
Authors: Cleary Marian
Published: May 2014

Marian Cleary, education coordinator for Allergy UK, discusses the problems of the allergic child and how good practice can make for happy childcare environments for children with allergies.
Imaginary friends – friend or foe?
Authors: Ledgerton Cooper Selena
Published: May 2014

Selina Ledgerton Cooper explains why many children choose to have an imagainary friend and reveals how, handled in the right way, this can be a positive experience for both you and the child.
Spring gardening
Authors: Youngman Angela
Published: May 2014

Angela Youngman reveals how to make spring gardening an enjoyable and productive learning experience for children.
Compulsory registration: The pros and cons
Authors: Tweed James
Published: May 2014

Although the voluntary childcare register is being replaced and updated next year, the Government still has no plans to make registration compulsory for all childcarers. James Tweed takes a closer look at some of the issues at stake.
A profile of Chiltern College
Authors: Beith Kate
Published: May 2014

The first in a series of articles looking at childcare training centres across the UK.
Planting sunflowers
Authors: Jackson Caroline , Miller Colette
Published: May 2014

Planting seeds is something children of all ages can enjoy and learn from. Caroline Jackson and Collette Miller reveal how you can make the most out of the experience.
Encouraging role-play in your setting
Authors: Cruickshank Sarah
Published: May 2014

In this article, we consider role-play, how it can be used, how it can be set up and managed and how to resource it cheaply.
Being a manny...
Authors: Smith Craig
Published: May 2014

As a 20-year-old lad, I tend to spend my weekends doing typical ‘20-year-old lad’ things. You can usually find me having a kick about in the park, playing rugby for the local team or relaxing down the pub.
Level 3 Diploma in Homebased Childcare
Authors: Riddall-Leech Sheila
Published: May 2014

In the first of two articles on the CACHE Level 3 Diploma, Sheila Riddall Leech reveals what is involved and provides some useful tips for completing the unit 1 assessment.
Nannies who share...
Authors: Dalton Alex
Published: May 2014

Alex Dalton, director of nannysharers.co.uk, explains how the website can put families in touch, with a view to sharing a nanny. She reveals the benefits of nanny sharing to nannies, parents and children.
We’re all going on a summer holiday...
Authors: Jackson Caroline
Published: May 2014

Caroline Jackson reveals how packing suitcases can be a great role-play activity.
Creative play
Authors: Youngman Angela
Published: May 2014

Angela Youngman reveals how recycled goods can be used for creative role-play ideas.
Training-packages.com
Authors: Booth Ruth
Published: May 2014

Ruth Booth explains how the online courses offered by Training-packages can help childcarers prepare for EYFS.
Baking cakes
Authors: Jackson Caroline , Miller Collette
Published: May 2014

Collete Miller explains how you can get even the very youngest children involved in cookery.
Paediatric first-aid: What you should know
Authors: Storey Tracey
Published: May 2014

Tracey Storey explains what paediatric first-aid is, focuses on some common emergencies and provides useful contacts.
EYFS: A unique child
Authors: Renouf Helen
Published: May 2014

The first of a series of articles based around the four themes of the Early Years Foundation Stage.
Making chatter matter
Authors: Freeman Kate
Published: May 2014

Kate Freeman, professional advisor at children’s communication charity I CAN, discusses the crucial role childcarers play in developing children’s communication and provides practical tips and advice on how to do this.
Childcare in Afghanistan: More than a warm crib
Authors: Votroubek David
Published: May 2014

David Votroubek, a soldier serving in Afghanistan, gives an insight into child development centres in Kabul.
Using picture books: Concepts
Authors: White Hilary
Published: May 2014

Hilary White reveals how to use picture books as a starting point for exploring concepts such as ‘colour’, ‘size’ and ‘opposites’.
EYFS: Having a positive relationship
Authors: Renouf Helen
Published: May 2014

The second of a series of articles based around the four themes of the Early Years Foundation Stage.
The value of nature walks
Authors: Santer Joan
Published: May 2014

Since the early days of pre-school provision the natural environment has been a valued part of children's experience and learning. Some practitioners emphasise the contribution of physical exercise and fresh air to health, others the spiritual and creative opportunities presented through a nature walk. Most recently the desirable outcomes advocate that children, by the age of five, should have a ‘developing knowledge and understanding of their environment, other people and features of the natural and made world.’ (Knowledge and Understanding of the World)
Sorting skills
Authors: Compton Naomi
Published: May 2014

Sorting is the first step towards logical thinking in several areas of the curriculum. It involves looking at similarities and differences and has strong links with number patterns and can lead to practical addition and subtraction.
Fun with counting
Authors: Evans Jean
Published: May 2014

How well do you help the children in your group develop their knowledge of number and counting? Why not carry out a simple survey and use it as a starting point for improving this aspect of your maths?
Sticky things
Authors: Taylor Rebecca
Published: May 2014

Children of all ages use glues, from plasters when they hurt themselves to PVA glue in art activities. This science-based topic is good for demonstrating and identifying glues that are made and others that occur in nature and will encourage the children to think about why things are sticky and what makes them stick.
The value of outdoor play
Authors: Tovey Helen
Published: May 2014

Outdoors offers unique learning experiences which cannot be provided indoors. It is an ever-changing space which provides new sights, sounds and sensations. Nature can be experienced at first hand and living things observed in their natural habitat. It offers space and freedom for children to explore and investigate, to imagine and create and to try things out. Outdoors can complement the indoors and offer activities such as painting, chalking and modelling on a larger scale. Children can play more freely with the sand and water when they don't have to worry about the mess.
Make a simple parachute
Authors: Evans Jean
Published: May 2014

Give a favourite teddy a ride by sitting it in the middle of the sheet, holding the sides and lifting them up and down to make the teddy bounce.
Branching out from sessional care
Authors: Bender Meg
Published: May 2014

Pre-schools have a history of adapting their services in response to the needs of families and local communities. Many groups that began by providing a short session of educational play have, over the years, introduced parent and toddler sessions; others have increased their opening hours to provide either full or extended daycare.
Using wax crayons
Authors: White Hilary
Published: May 2014

There are many different types of wax crayon to choose from. Buy the best quality you can afford and introduce variations such as glitter or fluorescent crayons. Triangular shaped crayons are worth looking out for if you want to do rubbings. Avoid crayons described as ‘washable’ or ‘paint sticks’; these are water soluble and not suitable for making scratch cards or wax resist pictures.
Maths from egg boxes
Authors: Garrad Barbara
Published: May 2014

These activities are based around a 3-d picture of three differently sized crocodiles made by mounting egg boxes on a large sheet of paper. On a table in front of the picture, place three differently sized nests cut from egg-box trays, and away you go!
Supporting the young child with epilepsy
Authors: Bricklebank Karen
Published: May 2014

Epilepsy is the name given to recurrent seizures which start in the brain. To fulfil its many functions the brain's nerve cells (neurons) must work in smooth harmony. Sometimes, however, an upset in the brain's electrical activity can cause a brief disruption within the nerve cells and the result is an epileptic seizure.
Toilet regulations and routines
Authors: Wilcock Liz
Published: May 2014

Accommodation requirements for maintained nursery schools and classes are specified in the Education (School Premises) Regulations 1998. The Children Act 1989 makes specific recommendations about certain facilities for providers who are registered with the local authority, including day care settings. However, there is little standard guidance relating to children's lavatories. What there is tends to be fairly basic.
How children learn about money
Authors: Catterall Rona
Published: May 2014

Children are aware of money from an early age. Most nursery age children will already have heard phrases such as ‘costs too much’, ‘can't afford it’, ‘not got enough pennies’. They see payment being made with coins, pieces of paper (cheques) and plastic cards. The cost of articles is displayed, money is received for birthdays and going shopping is a regular occurrence.
Recreating Klimt
Authors: Irving Dianne
Published: May 2014

Gustav Klimt has produced some inspiring images, with striking colours and mosaiclike patterns which will appeal to very young children. By recreating one of his most well-known works, ‘The Kiss‘, children can explore the imaginative use of colour, shape and texture and have the chance to experiment with a new creative technique which they can develop later in their own artwork.
Maths from the toy box
Authors: Garrad Barbara
Published: May 2014

Make a set of cards, each with a position written on it - up, down, in front, behind, underneath, on top of, next to, and so on. Ask a child to choose a toy from the box and take a card. You can either tell them what to do, according to the card selected, for example:
Existing policies
Authors: Fisher Sue
Published: May 2014

A good starting point would be to assess the success of your existing policy in terms of supporting the children with special educational needs in your setting. All staff members should be involved in this. Assess how effective the policy is in practice by giving thought to the following areas:
The value of nursery rhymes
Authors: White Hilary
Published: May 2014

In an ever-changing world, with new technology and an expanding body of literature for young children, the nursery rhyme remains comfortingly familiar – a link with the childhoods of previous generations. Many were already ancient when they were first written down in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, and yet they retain their power to entrance.
Exploring emotions: feeling afraid
Authors: Bayley Ros
Published: May 2014

Fear is a natural part of life, and something that young children experience in varying degrees. Our role lies in enabling them to understand that everyone is afraid sometimes and that being afraid is all part of being human. If we fail to do this, children's feelings of fear may be compounded by shame or guilt.
Sports Day
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

Children of pre-school age should not be expected to compete with each other in an adult way. The reason for our sports day is to have fun taking exercise together
Exploring emotions: feeling angry
Authors: Bayley Ros
Published: May 2014

In our attempts to understand anger, or for that matter any other strong emotion, it is useful to understand a little about how the brain works. The limbic system (where the emotional brain is situated) will always have the capacity to over-ride the neo cortex (where the thinking brain is situated). In evolutionary terms, it was there first, and because the connections that run one way are much more powerful than those that run the other way, it is the feeling brain that ‘kicks in’ first. In other words, when we are full of feeling it is difficult to think, and never is this more true than when we are feeling angry!
Talking on the telephone
Authors: Moran Jane
Published: May 2014

It is important to encourage language skills from an early age so that children can explain what they want, talk about things that interest them, negotiate with other children and adults to resolve arguments, decide what to do next and have conversations with others. Using the telephone as a way of stimulating language is useful because you can only use words to explain your needs, you can't give visual clues like expressions or gestures. Language used on the telephone has to be clearly expressed, because you have nothing else to help you.
Supermarket dash
Authors: Coulter Jacqueline
Published: May 2014

This game will not only generate excitement and exercise but also enhance hand-eye coordination, develop listening skills and foster turn taking and teamwork. You can play it successfully with a wide age and ability range of children. It would progress naturally from your role play in the shop corner or from a topic on ‘People who help us’.
Autumn leaf mobile
Authors: Newman Karen
Published: May 2014

Take a walk with your child and collect some autumn leaves and twigs.
Happy shoppers!
Authors: Coulter Jacqueline
Published: May 2014

You need to make two sets of matching cards to play with.
Meningitis: know how to spot the signs
Authors: Trust Meningitis
Published: May 2014

Meningitis is inflammation of the meninges, the lining surrounding the brain. It can strike anyone at anytime although under fives are the most at risk. It is highly contagious and, other than vaccines, there is no way of preventing meningitis. The best defence is education, knowing what to look for and what to do.
Playing and learning
Authors: Edgington Margaret
Published: May 2014

You almost certainly had a lot of freedom to play as a child, but you may worry about your own children playing – particularly if they are playing in nursery or school. Don't they do any work? Shouldn't they be learning to read and write? But remember that children growing up today have much less freedom than we did to play within their local community.
Exploring emotions: feeling guilty
Authors: Bayley Ros
Published: May 2014

Whilst guilt is unavoidable and can actually serve to help us become more sensitive and responsible people, it is generally regarded as a negative emotion, making it difficult to own and acknowledge. If we are to enable children to explore and deal positively with their feelings of guilt, it is essential that we create a climate where it is acceptable to make mistakes and get things wrong.
Designing and making greetings cards
Authors: Moran Jane
Published: May 2014

Design and technology in the Foundation Stage involves learning how things work by doing practical tasks. Children can be taught skills like cutting, shaping, joining, finishing and how to use tools safely. They can then try out and build on their own ideas, based on the skills they have learned.