bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Taking risks is vital for providing truly inclusive practice
Authors: Woonton Maggie
Published: May 2014

Maggie Woonton explains why it is vital to provide varied learning opportunities for children with SEN in your outdoor provision.
Suffering season is here again as allergies take hold
Authors: Sullivan Karen
Published: May 2014

A runny nose, a sore throat and sneezing are signs that your child might be suffering from hayfever, as Karen Sullivan explains.
Leave no stone unturned in quest to boost literacy
Authors: Lee Kate
Published: May 2014

How can you stop your book corner becoming tired and lacklustre? Kate Lee suggests a number of ways to bring the magic back.
Will early years staff say it with synthetic roses?
Authors: Elllis Sue
Published: May 2014

By now the dust will have settled on the initial reaction to the Rose Review, but what happens next? Sue Ellis explains.
Supporting teamwork
Authors: Martin Estelle
Published: May 2014

Effective leadership and working collaboratively provide the foundation for high quality childcare and education. Estelle Martin explores methods of nurturing and promoting team ethics.
Branches of learning
Authors: Taylor Suzanne
Published: May 2014

In a follow-up to her article last year, Suzanne Taylor describes the activities of a nursery that has developed the Norwegian forest kindergarten model and adapt it for an English setting.
Too much, too young?
Authors: Palmer Sue
Published: May 2014

In the latest instalment of her Toxic Childhood series, Sue Palmer analyses the rapidly changing face of childcare and asks whether caring can be a truly eff ective replacement for child-rearing.
Our children, our future
Authors: Dowling Marion
Published: May 2014

When we work with children in early years settings we need to put in place protective features that will help them to combat whatever is in store for them later in life, as Marion Dowling explains.
What the future holds
Authors: Henty Neil
Published: May 2014

In September 2006, Beverley Hughes MP granted eye magazine an exclusive interview during which she answered a number of your questions regarding the future of early years education.
The word on the street
Authors: Palmer Sue
Published: May 2014

In this month's Toxic Childhood article, Sue Palmer describes the marketing maelstrom that has overtaken playground culture and threatens to turn our children into brand-name evangelists.
Baby and toddler café
Authors: Severe Sam
Published: May 2014

Sam Severe discusses a new initiative taking place at Link Children's Centre, which was designed and planned by parents and families working in partnership with the centres health services.
What we can learn from… Light and dark
Authors: Allingham Sue
Published: May 2014

How familiar are children with the concept of light? Do they know that it can be bent, how it is created or how we see it? Sue Allingham brings this illuminating subject out of the dark.
Enjoying languages
Authors: Nicholls Valerie
Published: May 2014

A multi-sensory approach is an excellent way of introducing children to language lessons and is both fun and stimulating. Valerie Nicholls provides a number of easy-to-follow practical ideas.
If the trees could talk
Authors: Moncur Sue
Published: May 2014

Songs and stories are perfect for use in the outdoors because they can be enanced by real smells, sounds and textures. Children will also enjoy the role-play they allow as Sue Moncur explains.
Eco-friendly nurseries
Authors: Cosh Jackie
Published: May 2014

The stark warnings of the increasingly dire effects of climate change demand all of our action, which means the popularity of the Eco-School programme could not be more timely. Jackie Cosh explains.
The language of music
Authors: Hall Liz Scott
Published: May 2014

The development of communication skills is essential for intellectual, emotional and social development and so a babys first years are vital for language acquisition, as Liz Scott Hall explains.
Hair Gel and Parrots
Authors: Dixon Peter
Published: May 2014

EVERYONE HAS their favourite Monty Python sketch, with the Dead Parrot or Ministry of Silly Walks often topping the charts. My number one was that ridiculous conversation/argument concerning who had experienced the worst childhood:
What we can learn from… Springtime
Authors: Allingham Sue
Published: May 2014

As we leave the turn of the year behind, the coming springtime provides fantastic opportunities for children to discuss the changes that are occuring in the environment, as Sue Allingham explains.
Continuous provision
Authors: Bromley Helen
Published: May 2014

It is very important to make writing look irresistible to children, which means that practitioners should follow their interests and support them in a meaningful context, as Helen Bromley explains.
Telling traditional tales
Authors: Crosse Kay
Published: May 2014

Kay Crosse examines how traditional storytelling techniques can increase children's knowledge and understanding of the world and of different cultures, using Japanese tales as an example.
The need for flexibility
Authors: Aubrey Carol
Published: May 2014

A research project conducted by the University of Warwick in association with a group of early childhood leaders highlighted the challenges faced by the workforce in this ever changing sector.
Promote development
Authors: Cliff Tracey
Published: May 2014

The outdoor classroom plays an important part of a child's learning experience in the foundation stage, and as Tracey Cliff explains, it can specifi cally enhance personal, social and emotional development.
Play it again, Bremen
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

This is the first in a series of articles that explores the early learning goals through one traditional story or picture book. This month features activities based on those musicians of Bremen town.
To mentor is to learn
Authors: Paul-Smith Sharon
Published: May 2014

Although the EYFS promotes the use of reflective practice, staff members also benefit greatly by receiving feedback from colleagues, which is why mentoring is so important, says Sharon Paul-Smith.
SPECIAL TREASURES
Authors: Dixon Peter
Published: May 2014

THERE WAS an air of excitement in the Special Treasure’s staff room; even Mrs Harpoon seemed pleased. Yet again, she wafted the new Ofsted letter and repeated her warning: ‘Just because Ms Utopia has postponed her initial day visit, does not mean we can all relax. She is almost certain to come next month. Th is letter does, however, give us a little longer to get all our documents in order and our classrooms ship-shape.’
Baby number crunchers
Authors: Day Lin
Published: May 2014

Learning about mathematics is a complex process, but it is one that even the youngest babies can begin if they are presented with an environment that offers a variety of investigative opportunities.
Scrap EYFS staff requirement
Authors: Lawson Deborah
Published: May 2014

Staff status requirements written into the EYFS statutory framework document could have severe repercussions throughout the sector, warned Deborah Lawson at the recent Voice annual conference.
Green light for the 'go for IT!' campaign
Authors: Tanuku Purnima
Published: May 2014

ICT is an integral part of the Early Years Foundation Stage, but there are nurseries operating without sufficient computer skills. NDNA has launched a campaign to help settings realise their full potential.
Learning and development project
Authors: Nodder Bridget
Published: May 2014

Despite childminding being the most popular choice of daycare in Northern Ireland it is still not recognised as a professional childcare service, however, new training looks set to raise standards.
Mapping the minefield of manners
Authors: Lafferty Pam
Published: May 2014

The language we use and the behaviours we model to children are extremely important because they may have the opposite affect than the one desired. Pam Lafferty advises caution when using manners.
The enigma of walking
Authors: Day Lin
Published: May 2014

The first year of a baby's life is unrivalled in terms of sensory and physical development. One of the most extraordinary achievements is the walking reflex, which marks the beginning of the toddler years.
Articulation disorders
Authors: Sullivan Karen
Published: May 2014

For young children to struggle with speech, such as mispronunciation of sounds, is not uncommon, however, if problems persist, it is wise to seek advice. Karen Sullivan examines articulation disorders.
Special Treasures
Authors: Dixon Peter
Published: May 2014

Mrs Harpoon cancelled her participation in the Greenacre Songster's rehearsal, and settled in for a long evening of school work at her kitchen table. Once again, she thumbed through the STAFF LEADERSHIP file, underlining inspiring passages and wise comments. It had not been a good week at Special Measures, and it all stemmed back to Ms Debbie Goodways leaving her B.L.P.F. (Big Lesson Plan File) on the bus.
Letters to the Editor
Authors: Parkin Philip
Published: May 2014

From February 28, 2008 there will be a new voice for professionals working in education and childcare across the UK.
Spring is the time to take action
Authors: Bayram Liz
Published: May 2014

With six months to go until the early years landscape changes in England and Wales, it is the perfect time for registered childminders to start thinking about the benefits of wider learning opportunities.
Time to celebrate healthy lifestyles
Authors: Tanuku Purnima
Published: May 2014

Nurseries play a vital role in promoting healthy lifestyles to children and their families, and as Purnima Tanuku explains, the latest ‘healthy body, happy me’ campaign is a good way to spread the message.
Sit back, relax, enjoy
Authors: Miller Ruth
Published: May 2014

We often talk about using observation when referring to children's play, but can we really resist the urge to join in . Ruth Miller offers an insight into what can happen when we simply let children play.
A structured approach
Authors: Eccles Sally
Published: May 2014

Practitioners recognise the importance of high quality resources that can aid the learning of children, but it can be difficult to take stock of what you offer and what might be missing from your collection.
Dahlberg and Moss
Authors: Martin Estelle
Published: May 2014

Our series continues with a look at the work of Gunilla Dahlberg and Peter Moss, both of whom take a post-modern approach to early years learning, policy and provision for both children and families.
Stay one step ahead of change
Authors: Bayram Liz
Published: May 2014

The last few years have seen constant change, increasing paperwork and regulation, but through all these changes registered childminders have taken on each challenge without compromising quality.
Letters to the Editor
Authors: Parkin Philip
Published: May 2014

From February 28, 2008, there will be a new voice for professionals working in education and childcare across the UK.
Goldilocks pays a visit
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

After a short break, the ‘all rounders’ series returns with an article that uses practical activities based on the traditional story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears as starting points for further drama-based fun.
I will absolutely read this
Authors: Bromley Helen
Published: May 2014

In this new series to mark the National Year of Reading, Helen Bromley takes a closer look at some of the children's authors that all early years practitioners should know, starting with Lauren Child.
Get messy with writing
Authors: Clarke Jenni
Published: May 2014

In the last of her series exploring innovative and practical ways of engaging young boys in writing, Jenni Clarke explains how messy play can open up whole new areas for developing mark making skills.
Positive interactions
Authors: Davies Michelle
Published: May 2014

Children with speech and language difficulties often find it difficult to express their feelings, which can lead to bad behaviour. To help, staff must ensure their own interactions are of a high quality.
Find the room to move
Authors: Hutchison Alison
Published: May 2014

It would be easy for practitioners to assume that promoting movement in young children only ever happens outdoors, however, the need to move about must also be provided in the indoor environment.
Dental health
Authors: Coates Karen
Published: May 2014

Cleaning and protecting our teeth does more than just provide us with a perfect shiny smile, it helps to maintain a healthy body. Therefore, it is never too early to give children the right messages.
Short-term planning
Authors: Hoskens Sarah
Published: May 2014

Short-term planning, based on sound assessments from key stakeholders, will enable practitioners to ensure that every child makes progress, according to their individual learning and development needs.
Feet are made for walking
Authors: Elkin Susan
Published: May 2014

Despite the many initiatives designed to promote healthy living, the numbers of children who are overweight seems to be increasing. This is why it is so important for settings to promote movement.
The multi-cultural reader
Authors: Bromley Helen
Published: May 2014

If we are to turn all children into happy, competent and enthusiastic readers we need to ensure that our book selection includes texts from, and about, all of the cultures represented in our local community.
Cinderella
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: May 2014

One of the best loved fairy tales of them all, Cinderella combines the moral tale of good triumphing over evil, with the feel-good factor of the prince finding true-love in the form of a servant girl.
Finding the fifth element
Authors: crabbe Thom
Published: May 2014

Thom Crabbe, national development manager for early years at the Children's Workforce Development Council explores a route to gaining Early Years Professional Status that has recently been introduced.
Collaborative success
Authors: Hope Christine
Published: May 2014

Christine Hope rounds off the first part of our leadership series by offering personal reflections on aspects of leadership practice in early years and top tips for successful collaborative team working.
We are counting on you
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

Two well-known number rhymes that lend themselves to activities encompassing the Early Learning Goals, but particularly useful for the development of Problem solving, reasoning and numeracy skills.
Double crossed by single status
Authors: Gale Bob
Published: May 2014

There are times when trying to do the right thing by everyone can end up doing more harm than good, which is a criticism that could be levelled at the Single Status Agreement and Job Evaluation.
Beasty fun and games
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

This is the first in a second series of drama sessions, where each month we will focus on a different topic or theme and explore a number of starting points for practical activities, skills and games.
More than professional
Authors: Roberts Deslynne
Published: May 2014

The most sought after development programme in the sector remains Early Years Professional Status, however, if we are to attract the best graduates, we must ensure career progression does not stop there.
Bravi for operatic success
Authors: Fisher Mark
Published: May 2014

Most people would think it crazy to suggest using opera as a stimulating experience for babies, but rather than simply being exposed to Wagner, the multi-sensory BabyO is having remarkable effects.
May you always have fun
Authors: Bromley Helen
Published: May 2014

This 12-part series offers a month-by-month guide for practitioners working outdoors with young children, that will support them and help you celebrate, whatever the weather – this month, May.
An uncertain future: Budgets, cuts and sustainable futures by Claire Schofield
Authors: Schofield Claire
Published: May 2014

There is no doubt that the current economic climate is having an adverse effect on nurseries and practitioners, and with parents also feeling the cost, there is no better time to address sustainability.
Putting stars in their eyes
Authors: Fisher Mark
Published: May 2014

Theatre for children from birth to five-years-old is thriving in Scotland, with audiences often described as ‘responsive, vital and challenging.’ Mark Fisher explores the interactive, creative shows and their artists.
Seeing through the storms
Authors: Owen Sue
Published: May 2014

Times are tough in the UK, with recessions and never-ending budget cuts and deficits, but a trip to the USA, revealed to Sue Owen, that what we face here is mirrored by practitioners all across the world.
Sign language for all
Authors: Ryder Julie
Published: May 2014

An increasing body of evidence is supporting the use of signing with all babies, not just those with speech, language and communication needs. It gives children a ‘voice’ long before they can speak.
Going on a summer holiday
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

With the summer approaching, this drama session focuses on holiday activities and scenarios, with warm-ups and circle games, mime and concentration, physical drama, small world play and role-play.
Telling dandelion time
Authors: Bromley Helen
Published: May 2014

This 12-part series offers a month-by-month guide for practitioners working outdoors with young children, that will support them and help you celebrate, whatever the weather – this month, August.
The early years and the big society
Authors: Shukla Anand
Published: May 2014

With funding being cut and revenues streams tight or none existent, the sector must look to make use of the big society by asking parents and grandparents to volunteer their time, energy and skills.
Stronger ties with parents
Authors: Jones Geoff
Published: May 2014

Geoff Jones explores the importance of building the triangle of care between parents, children and practitioners, and examines practical ways to help close the gap through improving communication.
In the dentist's chair
Authors: Sharpe Deborah
Published: May 2014

Going to a dentist holds bad memories for many adults, which is why children need to get to know the environment, and what happens there, while also learning to embrace good mouth and tooth hygiene.
Every child is an artist
Authors: Horvath Judit
Published: May 2014

Judit Horvath explores the role of art in overall learning and development through a project in her setting, that made use of drawings as a tool to understand the meanings children give to their art.
The defining power of words
Authors: Allingham Sue
Published: May 2014

The documentation that supports the revised, and previous, foundation stage and foundation stage profile is filled with key terms and vocabulary, but many practitioners are still misinterpreting them.
Avoiding assumptions
Authors: O'toole Jennifer
Published: May 2014

Jennifer O'toole provides an experienced insight into how we might gain a better understanding of, and communicate better with, children with Asperger's Syndrome in our early years settings.
A portrait of childhood
Authors: Harries Judith , Astill Mel
Published: May 2014

The first in a six-part series that looks at different ‘objects’ in art and how artists explored their subject matter as a stimulus for providing practical early years activities – this month we focus on ‘children in art’.
Occupation fascination
Authors: Brown Paula
Published: May 2014

Development Matters states that children should ‘show interest in different occupations and ways of life’. How can we do this effectively in a rapidly changing world? Paula Brown has some examples.
Engaging families in art
Authors: Lefeuvre Hannah
Published: May 2014

The importance of engaging young children and their families in creativity, using imagination and role-play has been widely recognised, but how can this can be developed by community theatres?
Using cultural change to improve practice
Authors: Schmieder Clare
Published: May 2014

This article outlines a successful project of transformational practice, based on the Reggio Emilia approach, combining both children's free exploration outdoors and reflective planning with children.
Don't be afraid of water
Authors: Horvath Judit
Published: May 2014

In the second of a six-part series, Don't be afraid of… Judit Horvath explores some unusual, lesser-used resources. This article highlights the wonderful experiences that natural sources of water offer.
Don't be afraid of mud!
Authors: Horvath Judit
Published: May 2014

In the third of a six-part series, Don't be afraid of… Judit Horvath explores some unusual, lesser-used resources. This article highlights the wonderful experiences that can be offered with dirt and water.
Teaching school status
Authors: Tanner Linda
Published: May 2014

The number of state nurseries in England is falling, but Bristol preserves its maintained provision because of the evidence that quality early education narrows the gap for disadvantaged children.
Patterns of behaviour
Authors: Shepard Sophie
Published: May 2014

Is your child a little schema? A proper understanding of these repeated actions will give practitioners an invaluable insight into each child's interests and ways of thinking, and of embedding their learning.
Peer support programme success
Authors: Williams Lucy
Published: May 2014

A Department for Education-funded programme has been used to deliver a range of support that has been helping early years services to share expertise and best practice during challenging times.
Stories to make us think
Authors: Brown Paula
Published: May 2014

This article will explore how the revised Early Years Foundation Stage invites us to focus on children's ‘characteristics of effective learning’ to help them to think critically, to take risks and to make links.
Walks for chatter boxes
Authors: Clere Lynn
Published: May 2014

Developing and extending speaking and listening skills requires the provision of fun, inspiring activities that utilise the right environments and shared interests, so why not take your children on a talk walk?
Differentiation and challenge: the sky is the limit
Authors: Allingham Sue
Published: May 2014

Following last month's look at observation and assessment, this article will examine the practice of ‘differentiation’ and how it might inadequately underpin how we then view the children we work with.
Bleak future for family services
Authors: Rutter Jill
Published: May 2014

Family Information Services, and their work in the early years, have never been more important, but many are facing substantial cuts that could have wide-ranging negative affects on the UK's children.
Cost cuts do not improve quality
Authors: Bayram Liz
Published: May 2014

As the lead-in to the next election starts to loom on the horizon, the major political parties have started to see childcare as a vote winner again, but their plans continue to leave much to be desired.
More than just the same
Authors: Bryce-Clegg Alistair
Published: May 2014

The purpose of continuous provision is not to simply leave the same resources out for a long time, it should be based on observation and assessment of learning needs, and based on children's interests.
The standard bearers
Authors: Handley Gill
Published: May 2014

In this article we explore the background to Early Years Teacher Status, how it will change how we train, and how it will improve outcomes for children while serving to professionalise the sector's workforce.
The colic experience
Authors: Day Lin
Published: May 2014

With more and more babies entering the care of childminders and daycare settings, practitioners need to be able to provide support and advice for parents on a range of different conditions, such as colic.
Developing early writing skills through working with parents
Authors: Pimlott Laura
Published: May 2014

To develop young children's emerging communication skills, an early years setting needs to work closely with parents and the home learning environment, but just how do you maximise this link?
Childminder support is key
Authors: Robb Sue
Published: May 2014

If we are to improve the life chances of vulnerable two-year-olds through the intervention offered by early education and the free entitlement we need more childminders to offer additional places.
Food for Festivals
Authors: MacMahon Una
Published: May 2014

The subject of food is always a winner with children. Una MacMahon, a teacher at St Pius Xth Primary School in Bristol, titillates the taste buds while examining the distinctive features of a non-fiction text.
Why key stage I SATs must go and learning should begin
Authors: Bayley Ros
Published: May 2014

The start of a new campaign. Ros Bayley, a former teacher and educational consultant and trainer in Walsall, West Midlands, lends her support to ‘Scrap the SATs’
Labour's bold plan for newly qualified teachers
Authors: Nash Sally
Published: May 2014

In the battle to recruit and retain good teachers the government has turned the spotlight on the thousands of newly qualified teachers (NQTs) who are just embarking on their careers in schools up and down the UK. Journalist Sally Nash, a former teacher, examines this issue.
Clicking on after a firm foundation
Authors: Duffty John
Published: May 2014

It is vital for young children to develop a good understanding of how ICT supports and helps us with everyday activities. John Duffty is a senior lecturer at Manchester Metropolitan University, and a former primary deputy head teacher.
Sounding out good vibrations
Authors: Hart Tara
Published: May 2014

Helping children to visualise and understand how sound travels. By Tara Hart, an advanced skills teacher at St John the Divine School, Kennington, London.
Employing teachers from abroad to work in the UK
Authors: O'Connell Chris
Published: May 2014

Overseas teachers from New Zealand, South Africa, Australia and Canada no longer have to wait until they get to the UK before they can look for a teaching job. Chris O'Connell, a former teacher in the UK and New Zealand, is the international liaison consultant with Capita Education Resourcing.
Hitting the right note with frogs
Authors: Gilderdale Caroline
Published: May 2014

Caroline Gilderdale, early years arts consultant, City of York Council Arts Service, shows how to develop scientific awareness of the life cycle of a frog through creative movement and musical composition.
Why being an AST is such a class(room) act
Authors: Watson Liz
Published: May 2014

Liz Watson, an AST at Brindishe School, Lewisham, London, explains what this is and how to go about obtaining AST status.
Anancy and Mr Dry-Bone
Authors: George Manda
Published: May 2014

This story focuses on the Anancy character of Caribbean folklore and is reminiscent of the strong oral storytelling tradition passed down from generation to generation, often told as bedtime stories to children. By Manda George.
Child protection EVERYBODY'S BUSINESS
Authors: Bell Alice
Published: May 2014

Many teachers feel unsure of how to identify and deal with child abuse. Alice Bell, the NSPCC educare programme co-ordinator, offers some invaluable advice.
Springtime rhythm and blues
Authors: Duffty John
Published: May 2014

As musical composition with Year 1 children can be troublesome, this lesson plan uses ICT to alleviate some of those difficulties. John Duffty is a senior lecturer at Manchester Metropolitan University, and a former primary deputy head teacher.
Word problems and solutions
Authors: Walker Sam
Published: May 2014

Sam Walker, a maths teacher from King's College Junior School, Wimbledon, London, shows how children in year 4 can be taught a step-by-step approach to help readers access mathematical word problems more easily.
The world is a big place
Authors: Burgess Dawn
Published: May 2014

Using a concentric approach to identify places in the world. By Dawn Burgess, deputy head teacher at Newsome Junior School, Huddersfield.
Observing infant's internal world is child's play
Authors: Fox Jennifer
Published: May 2014

Jennifer Fox, a special needs teacher and home tutor from Cheshire, describes the practice of infant observation, arguing that it provides a way of thinking about children that can promote their emotional wellbeing.
Against the flow to conserve water
Authors: Casey Ted
Published: May 2014

Ted Casey, education studies manager at Three Valleys Water, offers advice on embedding a water conscious attitude as part of everyday life.
The right way to plan to write
Authors: Porter Helen
Published: May 2014

Helen Porter, a former English co-ordinator from Hampshire, makes some suggestions about how children in a year 6 class should plan in order to write good stories.
Impact of war on people's lives
Authors: Andrews Crispin
Published: May 2014

The effects of the Second World War on Britain is explored by Crispin Andrews, a primary teacher, qualified sports coach and freelance writer from Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire.
Are primary schools on course to offer foreign languages?
Authors: Nash Sally
Published: May 2014

All primary school children are to learn a foreign language by 2012. Sally Nash, a former teacher, outlines the government's plans for language learning in primary schools
Freeing teachers to teach is the path to success
Authors: Bhakoo Rekha
Published: May 2014

The School Workforce Pathfinders Project set out to remodel the school workforce. Here, Rekha Bhakoo, head teacher at Newton Farm Nursery, First and Middle School, South Harrow, London, one of the 32 schools chosen to undertake the scheme, tells how it has revolutionised working life.
Laying the seeds of knowledge
Authors: Prescott Tiffany
Published: May 2014

There is so much to learn from planting your own seeds and wathching them grow. Tiffany Prescott is currently studying a BSc as a primary science curriculum specialist in Ingleby Barwick, Stockton-on-Tees.
Playing with words is great fun
Authors: Leaming Liz
Published: May 2014

Children love telling jokes and reading humorous poems. Liz Leaming, a key stage 1 teacher from Nailsea, north Somerset, looks at how to tickle a class into a giggle.
Measured way to study capacity
Authors: Walker Sam
Published: May 2014

Practical maths lessons can be really enjoyable for children especially when water is involved! Sam Walker, a maths teacher from King's College Junior School, Wimbledon, London explains.
A Victorian census of opinion
Authors: Sear Lynn
Published: May 2014

Census returns are ideal as a starting point for exploring history through drama. By Lynn Sear, literacy co-ordinator at Snowsfields Primary School, London.
And now for a news update
Authors: Andrews Crispin
Published: May 2014

Children should explore how the media present information in order to prepare to play an active role as citizens. By Crispin Andrews, a primary teacher from Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire.
Mirror mirror… it's time to look at yourself
Authors: Lyonette Barry
Published: May 2014

How can a school achieve ownership of its priorities for improvement and at the same time provide a healthier well-being for its staff? Barry Lyonette, head teacher at St Joseph's Catholic Primary School, Wallasey, Merseyside, explains
ICT and minibeasts: One click, one creep
Authors: Smith Dave
Published: May 2014

Use ICT to support the teaching of a science project on minibeasts. By Dave Smith, a former primary school teacher, who is now assistant marketing director for Anglia Polytechnic University's mPowerNet ICT Training for Teachers
Problem-solving the easy way
Authors: Hoad Elizabeth
Published: May 2014

Elizabeth Hoad, a former teacher from Farnborough, Hampshire, outlines a trouble-free approach to solving problems for a year 1 class.
To be or not to be someone else
Authors: Leaming Liz
Published: May 2014

Liz Leaming, a key stage 1 teacher from Nailsea, north Somerset, explains how children's natural inclination for role-play can be used dramatically in the classroom.
Piecing together all the answers
Authors: Manley Sarah
Published: May 2014

A chessboard provides problem-solving puzzles that are fun. Sarah Manley is a maths and PSHE co-ordinator and a senior teacher at Snowsfields Primary School, London. She is currently seconded to Southwark's numeracy team one day a week.
Shopping all over the world
Authors: Thomas Alison
Published: May 2014

Open the world to your class by taking them on a trip to the supermarket. Alison Thomas, a former key stage 1 and 2 teacher from London, looks at how other countries can become real to year 3 children.
Badger Nursery Rhymes
Authors: Dean Sue
Published: May 2014

Sue Dean, manager of Steps Professional Development, shows how to use teaching and learning approaches from the First Steps reading and oral language resources for a week’s literacy based on traditional nursery rhymes.
New insights to GAZE AVERSION
Authors: Thornton Stephanie
Published: May 2014

When children look away they may be thinking harder, not dreaming or avoiding the work set. Dr Stephanie Thornton reports on the first results from an exciting new research project at Stirling University.
Fruitful ways to study place
Authors: Glover Jane
Published: May 2014

Jane Glover, a year 1 teacher and key stage I co-ordinator at Kingfisher Primary, Wheatley, Doncaster uses fruit as a way to teach children about how other places in the world differ from home.
Bring spirituality into the classroom
Authors: Cooper Clare
Published: May 2014

Clare Cooper, ICT co-ordinator at Osbaston Infants School, Monmouth, Monmouthshire, provides insipring ideas of how to bring spirituality into the classroom and encourage children to think deeply.
Let them play on recorders
Authors: Scott Douglas M
Published: May 2014

Recorder teaching can be simple and great fun. Douglas M Scott, a former music teacher and a freelance writer from Perthshire, Scotland, shows how.
Identifying the different sounds of the orchestra
Authors: Scott Douglas M
Published: May 2014

Here are some simple steps towards easy listening to classical music. By Douglas M Scott, a former music teacher and a freelance writer from Dunblane in Perthshire, Scotland.
Grace and Family
Authors: Prescott Tiffany
Published: May 2014

Go on a journey with Grace, who finds that she has two families – in Africa and Britain. This is an ideal text to use for October’s black history month. By Tiffany Prescott, a teaching professional from Stockton-on-Tees.
Age and expectation: NEW CLASS, NEW ROLE
Authors: Thornton Stephanie
Published: May 2014

When children start the school year they often assume a new role for themselves. Dr Stephanie Thornton shows that this is a perfect time for re-examining our expectations of the children we teach.
A simple ode to the silly season
Authors: Renton Karin
Published: May 2014

Have fun and improve your poetry and lipsliding techniques with a year 2 class. By Karin Renton, a teacher at Colle School, Colle di Val D’Elsa, Tuscany, Italy.
Charming way to write fortunes
Authors: Lewis Catherine
Published: May 2014

Catherine Lewis, editor of Five to Eleven, does some Japanese fortune-telling and writes charms with a year 3 class.
Visual journey across the world
Authors: Strong Martin
Published: May 2014

Take your class on a journey across the world. By Martin Strong, year 5/6 teacher and literacy co-ordinator at Ulcombe CE Primary School, Kent.
Teaching literacy is an art rather than a science
Authors: Grainger Teresa
Published: May 2014

Teresa Grainger is a reader in education at Canterbury Christ Church University College. She is an ex-president of the UK Literacy Association.
Teaching assistants: Good Practice
Authors: MacKenzie Suzanne
Published: May 2014

By Suzanne MacKenzie, executive secretary of the National Association for Special Educational Needs, and an experienced teacher with a wide knowledge of educational policy and legislation.
Domino effect on addition
Authors: Manley Sarah
Published: May 2014

Explore calculation strategies using dominoes and place value cards. By Sarah Manley, maths co-ordinator and senior teacher at Snowsfields Primary School, Southwark, London, and one of Southwark's leading maths co-ordinators.
Some sound advice to listening
Authors: Steel Sue
Published: May 2014

Sue Steel introduces a year 1 class to the fundamentals of sound and hearing through investigation. She works at Waycroft Primary School in Bristol and is the school's ICT co-ordinator.
The Santa conundrum HARMFUL OR HARMLESS?
Authors: Thornton Stephanie
Published: May 2014

Most adults remember when they found out that Father Christmas does not really exist. Is deception on this kind of scale bad for children, or is it a lovely fantasy we should all keep alive from generation to generation?
Exercise your brain
Authors: Moore Gill
Published: May 2014

Are you worried about children's concentration? Perhaps a spell of exercise would help. Gill Moore talks to advocates of the increasingly popular approach that is based around the concept of ‘whole-brain' learning
Maths theme MENTAL CALCULATION
Authors: Ebbutt Shella
Published: May 2014

Sheila Ebbutt, from the maths specialists BEAM, introduces a range of flexible activities for developing the skill at the heart of maths success
Advisor's view
Authors: Mitchell Roger
Published: May 2014

Roger Mitchell focuses on the scientific processes of humans as organisms by using the investigstion skills from the key stage 1 programme of study
Great expectations
Authors: Thornton Stephanie
Published: May 2014

In many ways, our social reputations shape who we are and how we behave. Can understanding a child's playground reputation give teachers useful insights?
Sudoku and fairytales
Authors: Allen Margaret
Published: May 2014

There are many different ways to use your interactive whiteboard. Margaret Allen suggests a few interesting lessons on maths and literacy
The domino effect
Authors: Manley Sarah
Published: May 2014

In this lesson, children use dominoes to generate the sums allowing children to work at their own pace without running out of sums to do
The art of music making
Authors: Anderson Pip
Published: May 2014

Introducing music to key stage 1 children is a challenging yet rewarding task. But how do we make sure that we structure lessons into manageable units of learning?
The tale is in the telling
Authors: Fox-Eades Jenny
Published: May 2014

In the second of three articles, Jenny Fox Eades looks at speaking and at how boosting children's spoken skills can positively influence their self esteem
Learning to speak out
Authors: Turnball Margo
Published: May 2014

Margo Turnball gives and overview and explains how best to support children with communication disabilities. One child in 10 has one – do any children in your class?
Let's help parents know more about their child's education
Authors: Walker Tim
Published: May 2014

There is a significant gap in parents' knowledge of education. Tim Walker discusses this, and how a new book, Education – A Parents' Handbook, plans to remedy it
Do you think you know enough about CPD?
Authors: Elkin Sue
Published: May 2014

The end of initial teacher training is the beginning of learning as a teacher, says Sue Elkin. How do we ensure that standards continue to improve as careers develop?
Time to stop and think
Authors: Fox-Eades Jenny
Published: May 2014

Jenny Fox Eades, programme planner for the March conference ‘Valuing Difference', examines the importance of thinking time for SEN children and their teachers
Teachers need to tell parents: It is your job to support, not teach
Authors: Quill Alison
Published: May 2014

A recent survey revealed most parents want to help children with schoolwork but don't know how. Alison Quill talks to 5TO7 about how teachers can support parents
Please, sir, I don't want twizzlers any more!
Authors: Hindmarch Sonali
Published: May 2014

Sonali Hindmarch questions what the new funding for school meals and the School Food Trust will really mean for staff
Singing little victories
Authors: Reinstein Mike
Published: May 2014

Mike Reinstein talks about his experiences using music to help children with special educational needs become more confident in the classroom
Advancing quality
Authors: Twigg Stephen
Published: May 2014

Stephen Twigg explains what it means to be an advanced skills teacher and why it is a unique approach to quality teaching
What about ‘books for schools’ then?
Authors: Rhodes Liz
Published: May 2014

Liz Rhodes looks at how schools have started to neglect reading in favour of technology
Over in the meadow
Authors: Rhodes Liz
Published: May 2014

This is a story some children may be familiar with. Liz Rhodes, a primary school consultant from Exeter, discusses how to teach this version of it with its new twists and details
Celebrating Juneteenth
Authors: Hammond Paula
Published: May 2014

In this month's assembly section, Paula Hammond tells the story of when slavery was abolished in the USA, covering the themes of: Freedom, slavery, rights and responsibilities
Design and technology
Authors: Hope Gill
Published: May 2014

Pandy used to live in my year 1 classroom. Before then he lived at home with me. In fact, he has lived in all my homes since I was one year old. Before that, he lived with my cousin, Carol.
A journey to Beijing
Authors: Evans David
Published: May 2014

An account of Devon headteacher, David Evan's, visit to the city of Beijing for the China-UK school leadership programme in March 2005
Word & sentence level
Authors: Hoad Elizabeth
Published: May 2014

The summer term is an excellent time to get out in the school grounds with the children to investigate minibeasts. Use these literacy learning objectives to complement this aspect of life and living processes within the science curriculum. The basic ideas can all be adapted to fit other aspects of science such as materials, plants and so on.
History
Authors: Wilkinson Alf
Published: May 2014

When studying history with young children it is always best to start from the present and familiar, and then look back, from what pupils know and see around them, to the unfamiliar. That way, pupils can work from what they know and use, and begin to develop a feel for the ways that things were different in the past.
White paper gets the thumbs down
Authors: Silvester Katie
Published: May 2014

The government has unveiled its new white paper which will set up new trust schools that are independent of local authority control. Katie Silvester reports
Word & sentence level
Authors: Hoad Elizabeth
Published: May 2014

Elizabeth Hoad uses Christmas plays in her exercises.
The thinking classroom
Authors: Cowley Sue
Published: May 2014

There has been a surge of interest in how children think and learn and the way the brain works. Sue Cowley offers some advice on how to accelerate learning
Achieving together
Authors: McGee Marie
Published: May 2014

Are we too narrow and quick to judge in the way we think about problem behaviours in children?
Time to get sorted
Authors: Dabell Jon
Published: May 2014

Jon Dabell introduces card sorts which involves learners organising a collection of statements or pictures into groups or categories
Making silly putty
Authors: Hammond Paula
Published: May 2014

Change is the theme is the focus of this month's experiment, with children encouraged to make their own silly putty
A poetic licence
Authors: Harding Tim
Published: May 2014

Martin Strong, literacy co-ordinator at Ulcombe CE Primary School in Kent, outlines a touchy-feely approach to writing poetic sentences with a year 1 class
The story of Mary
Authors: Martin Patricia
Published: May 2014

Patricia Martin, a consultant for RE Support Services focuses on the appropriate Christmas story of Mary, the mother of Jesus
How many words do they need to know?
Authors: Hindmarch Sonali
Published: May 2014

A new study reports that children need to know 100 words and 61 phonics to learn to read. Sonali Hindmarch reports
Reading to the music
Authors: Cosh Jackie
Published: May 2014

Young children like to play games, to sing, and to do action movements. So could these activities be used to help children learn to read?
Projecting your lessons
Authors: Mallon Con
Published: May 2014

There are many different ways to use ICT in the classroom. Con Mallon suggests a few interesting ideas on using projectors
Skating on thin ice
Authors: Hammond Paula
Published: May 2014

Paula Hammond's exercises are carrying out an experiment while learning about the three states of water.
Place value
Authors: Elis Jones Helen
Published: May 2014

Helen Elis Jones' lesson teaches children place value
We're off to see the world
Authors: Chappell Rebecca
Published: May 2014

A project on understanding the world and lessons with Barnaby Bear.
Split down the middle
Authors: Mill Patsy
Published: May 2014

What are the effects of divorce on the very young? Do schools have a responsibility toward these vulnerable children?
Milking the maths
Authors: Dabell John
Published: May 2014

John Dabell explains how we can be more inventive in maths. The photocopiable pages are on multiplication.
The needs of seeds
Authors: Hope Gill
Published: May 2014

Gill Hope's inventive lesson allows children to use their investigation skills to house seeds.
Manners mayketh man and, presumably, woman
Authors: Rhodes Liz
Published: May 2014

Liz Rhodes discusses the importance of teaching polite behaviour to primary school children
Easter egg-speriments!
Authors: Hammond Paula
Published: May 2014

Paula Hammond's exercises focus on teaching year 2 children about materials and their properties while experimenting with eggs
Learning all about languages
Authors: Dutta Robene
Published: May 2014

These lessons are sutiable for all language teaching
Imaginary friendships
Authors: Thornton Stephanie
Published: May 2014

Most children in infant school have imaginary friends. Stephanie Thornton questions why and whether we should we discourage it
Wake up sleepy head
Authors: Palmer Sue
Published: May 2014

In the next article in her Toxic Childhood series, Sue Palmer considers the importance of a good night's sleep in children's development and learning
The fuh-ss over phonics
Authors: Heppelwhite Debbie
Published: May 2014

Debbie Hepplewhite urges teachers to embrace the messages from the Rose Report and explains what adjustments schools need to make to fulfil the recommendations
Too scared to grow up?
Authors: Mill Patsy
Published: May 2014

We live in a very ‘risk-averse’ society. That we've ‘gone too far’ in that direction has recently become a commonly voiced fear. Less discussed is the price we've yet to pay
Computer intervention
Authors: Louis Sarah
Published: May 2014

They usually get bad press but Sarah Louis asks: can computer games actually improve attention?
I is for India
Authors: Rhodes Liz
Published: May 2014

Liz Rhodes discusses ways in which year 2 children can learn about aspects of Indian life from this exotically illustrated book
The happiest time of life?
Authors: Thornton Stephanie
Published: May 2014

Childhood is supposed to be a time of innocence, freedom from worry or responsibility. But it isn't always like that …
Should we have faith?
Authors: Mill Patsy
Published: May 2014

Is it possible – or desirable – to teach both science and religion to the young? Will children become confused by the conflict?
Dear Doctor Maths &
Authors: Dabell John
Published: May 2014

An unusual lesson aimed to assess children's knowledge and understanding
The new foundation phase in Wales
Authors: Richards Shan
Published: May 2014

In 2006, all year 1 and year 2 children in pilot schools will be following the Welsh foundation phase. Shan Richards reports
The word on the street
Authors: Palmer Sue
Published: May 2014

In this month's Toxic Childhood article, Sue Palmer describes the ‘marketing maelstrom’ that has overtaken playground culture
Halloween: Trick or treat?
Authors: Cullen Kairen
Published: May 2014

Most readers enjoy the pageantry and fun of Halloween and today's children continue to find it exciting. But should it be a part of school experience?
Going to the big school
Authors: March Ally
Published: May 2014

How can we ensure children have a smooth transition coming from the early years to key stage 1? Ally March discusses
Down in the Jungle
Authors: Rhodes Liz
Published: May 2014

Children love this book because of the activities which involve them. Liz Rhodes shows how it can be used with year 1
Local journeys
Authors: North Wendy
Published: May 2014

Wendy North suggests geography lessons set around your local area and explores what children can see, hear and smell
Simnel Sunday
Authors: Hammond Paula
Published: May 2014

Simnel Sunday, which falls on 18 March, is also known as Mothering Sunday. Paula Hammond explains
Concept cartoons
Authors: Dabell John
Published: May 2014

Place value