bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How a prehistoric landscape begins to
Authors: Bromley Helen
Published: May 2014

With the garden beds in place, Helen Bromley's latest visit to Haseltine Nursery had the children learning about and planting different seeds
Will better pay prove attractive to men?
Authors: Campbell Cate
Published: May 2014

Cate Campbell looks at proposals for improving pay and prospects in the early years, and asks whether it provides enough recognition for teaching assistants, or enough incentive for men to enter the childcare workforce.
Delightful DISHES
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: May 2014

Learning to cook is an enjoyable and important part of growing up; Ailsa Chapman provides the recipes.
It's true that not all children conform to type
Authors: Fidler Wendy
Published: May 2014

Wendy Fidler explores the link between a child's behaviour, and their feelings of both engagement and of attachment with adults.
One small step for mankind, one giant leap for children
Authors: Waterhouse Jessica
Published: May 2014

EYE's consultant editor Jessica Waterhouse reflects on extending foundation stage practice into year one at Cypress Infant School
No need to come CLEAN!
Authors: Stead Kay
Published: May 2014

A healthy attitude to dirt can only be beneficial for our children. Kay Stead explains why it is important to offer messy play activities in our settings.
Norway
Authors: Taylor Suzanne
Published: May 2014

On a trip to Norway last year, Suzanne Taylor observed how a very different attitude to the outdoors has led to more confident children.
P is for PASTA!
Authors: Milmine Lesley
Published: May 2014

In this month's project Lesley Milmine introduces children to the wonderful world of this great Italian food.
Natural explorers have the world at their fingertips
Authors: Elkin Susan
Published: May 2014

Children have a big interest in other cities and countries across the globe. Susan Elkin explores ways to further this burgeoning interest.
Our children are under more strain than ever before
Authors: Sullivan Karen
Published: May 2014

Karen Sullivan explores the implications of a recent report suggesting one-in-10 children aged 0-5 suffer from mental health issues.
How therapy can stop children from stammering
Authors: Hayhow Rosemarie , Kingston Mary
Published: May 2014

Stammering is a cause of low self-esteem for children. Two speech and language therapists examine the use of a new type of therapy.
To understand the future we need to look at the past
Authors: Elkin Susan
Published: May 2014

History is all around us, but how can you help young children make sense of it and its importance to daily life. Susan Elkin explains.
Outdoor musical play gives children good vibrations
Authors: Matthias Sophie
Published: May 2014

Sophie Matthias looks at how the freedom outdoors has given an added dimension to musical play at Norcot Early Years Centre
High-level training will give children sound foundations
Authors: Andrews Sue
Published: May 2014

Sue Andrews explains why a new training programme is leading to confident, communicative children with high self-esteem.
DISCIPLINE!
Authors: Sullivan Karen
Published: May 2014

In the second-part of her look at discipline, Karen Sullivan examines why discipline is so essential for raising children with both self-respect and respect for others.
Valuing children’s creative practice from birth to five
Authors: Dower Ruth Churchill
Published: May 2014

Ruth Churchill Dower explores the impact that exposure to the arts at an early age can have on children's confidence, self-image and creativity.
With children there is no such thing as normal
Authors: McTavish Frank
Published: May 2014

Frank McTavish asks whether we have gone too far in diagnosing developmental problems in young children? Is it time for a reassessment?
Early identification of additional learning needs
Authors: Macintyre Christine
Published: May 2014

The number of children displaying additional learning needs is increasing. Christine Macintyre offers advice to early years staff.
Using symbols is an easy way to boost mental development
Authors: Hammond Paula
Published: May 2014

Executive Function governs our ability to make decisions and regulate behaviour. Paula Hammond looks at the latest research.
Making a real SPLASH
Authors: Allingham Sue
Published: May 2014

Water in all its many forms is a source of constant fascination for children. Sue Allingham sets out a number of starting points for learning and discovery.
Step away from the car, your future health is at risk
Authors: Wolman Julia
Published: May 2014

Research is throwing more light on the problems that obese children will face in the future, as Julia Wolman explains.
Zanzibar
Authors: Fidler Wendy
Published: May 2014

Wendy Fidler discovered the benefits of a good early years education when she visited a Montessori school on the island of Zanzibar.
Ofsted advocates two-tier regulations
Authors: Bayram Liz
Published: May 2014

New proposals, requiring childminders to register voluntarily if they look after children above the age of five, is causing confusion among parents and practitioners, as Liz Bayram explains.
Improving outcomes
Authors: Severe Sam
Published: May 2014

Many of you will have heard of children's centres, you may even be lucky enough to be involved in one. For those of you who are wondering, what they are and who are they for? Sam Severe explains.
Home corner
Authors: Waterhouse Jessica
Published: May 2014

In this new series we will explore how children learn from diff erent environments, objects and events. This month, Jessica Waterhouse focuses on the home corner.
Alarm bells ring with broadsheet warning
Authors: Henty Neil
Published: May 2014

A POPULAR MUSIC act once used the phrase ‘Modern life is rubbish’ as the title of their sophomore album. Th e more I read about early years education in the newspapers these days – both tabloid and broadsheets, including the not-so-broad – the more you would be inclined to agree. A couple of months ago, a letter appeared in The Daily Telegraph that warned of a potent cocktail of volatile infl uences, in this modern world, that were causing our children untold damage.
Continuous professional development
Authors: Roberts Ann
Published: May 2014

Every early years practitioner, no matter at what level they practise, must attend a great many training sessions throughout their career to progress, but exactly what is on offer? Ann Roberts investigates.
Bring your table to life
Authors: Barber Jenny
Published: May 2014

Interest tables do not seem to be as popular in settings as they once were, however, as Jenny Barber explains, they are an excellent resource that can stimulate children and provide a link with home.
Why we risk excluding practitioners
Authors: Lawson Deborah
Published: May 2014

The rising costs of childcare and the continued low wages being paid in the sector could lead to early years staff not being able to benefit from the initiatives they are asked to deliver, says Deborah Lawson.
Open the door on a winter wonderland
Authors: Featherstone Sally
Published: May 2014

On a winters day, when your children rush outdoors, what are your thoughts? Sally Featherstone explains why you should be filled with excitement when looking out of the door on a cold, wet day.
Hundreds of learning experiences
Authors: Featherstone Sally
Published: May 2014

Last year, Jim Rose used the reading development of his grandson to inform aspects of the Rose Review. Taking his lead, Sally Featherstone discusses her own grandson, who is now in year one.
Raising little magpies
Authors: Sullivan Karen
Published: May 2014

Stealing comes with a social stigma and the parents of children who steal are often horrified by their childs actions. However, it can be a normal part of development, as Karen Sullivan explains.
Hearing other voices
Authors: Wright Gill
Published: May 2014

Part of the ongoing assessment process in the foundation stage involves hearing and listening to the views of children and their parents. Gill Wright discusses a number of ways to enhance this interaction.
Expanding horizons
Authors: Bromley Helen
Published: May 2014

Helen Bromley begins a series of articles on supporting children's development as writers. This month she takes a look at creating an environment in which all children will feel that they can write.
I can hear sweet music
Authors: Hall Liz Scott
Published: May 2014

Speaking and listening skills are the fundamentals upon which language and literacy development are based. Liz Scott Hall explains how music and sounds can play an important part of the process.
SEN provision in Ghana
Authors: Taylor Sarah
Published: May 2014

Practitioners can learn much about their own practice by visiting the educational systems of other countries, as Sarah Taylor discovered when she studied inclusion at a school for SEN children in Ghana.
We should bring local history back to life
Authors: Henty Neil
Published: May 2014

THIS IS going to be slightly off topic, but it does refer to education, so hold tight. It occurred to me the other day, that we really do miss a trick when it comes to teaching history. I know there are such things as curriculums, and guidelines and so forth, but what better way to enthuse children with the wonders of our past, than to get out there in the local area and experience it – even if it does rely to a large part on the imagination. To some extent we are seeing something similar happening in the outdoor classroom and forest schools. Getting out into the ‘real’ world and experiencing the world at first hand. So, back to history.
Take special measures
Authors: Lee Kate
Published: May 2014

Identifying and meeting the needs of children with additional needs is a complex task, one requiring experience, sensitivity and training. Kate Lee looks at ways to boost knowledge and confidence.
Poverty haunting Blair
Authors: Wall Kate
Published: May 2014

In 1999, Tony Blair announced his vision to end child poverty in the UK within 20 years. Kate Wall takes a look at what has been done and what still needs to be done to make this dream a reality.
Making a giant drama
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

In the second of her articles focusing on using traditional stories as starting points for learning, Judith Harries examines practical ways of using Jack and the Beanstalk as inspiration for games and role-play.
Letters to the Editor
Authors: Herbert-Blankson Robert Anaman
Published: May 2014

I was particularly pleased to read in the May 2007 edition of eye: ‘Early learning should be challenging and enjoyable and should build on children's own interests and needs.’
Thank you, Mrs Lucas
Authors: Bayley Ros
Published: May 2014

To mark the 100th edition of eye, Ros Bayley reflects on the changing role of the early year's teacher by comparing modern practice with the lessons that can be learnt from her first teacher, Mrs Lucas.
The fabric of learning
Authors: Rattigan Marlene
Published: May 2014

Everyday objects often prove excellent stimulation for movement and play. Here, Marlene Rattigan introduces a number of activities involving scarves that will promote learning in young children.
Time to start planning for EYFS is now
Authors: Bayram Liz
Published: May 2014

With a year to go until the Early Years Foundation Stage becomes mandatory, September is the perfect time for childminders to start embarking on training and development courses, as Liz Bayram explains.
The story of empathy
Authors: Beeley Kirstine
Published: May 2014

Kirstine Beeley examines the similarities and differences between the empathy doll and persona doll approaches in the UK and looks at how empathy dolls can be used to develop emotional awareness.
A rhyme for the times
Authors: Scott Kym
Published: May 2014

Nursery rhymes have long been a staple of early learning, however, research suggests that a large number of parents have lost the art of rhyming with children. Kym Scott discusses potential solutions.
Early Play
Authors: Dixon Peter
Published: May 2014

My Monday morning student had a terrible confession to make, and she eyed me sadly. ‘It's my file,’ she muttered. ‘My daily plans file. I've left it on the bus.’
Snow
Authors: Waterhouse Jessica
Published: May 2014

In some parts of the country snow is a rare sight, but when it does come it is guaranteed to excite young children. Jessica Waterhouse suggests a variety of ways to make the most of snowy conditions.
Bird box collection
Authors: Brunton Pat , Thornton Linda
Published: May 2014

One of the best ways to build a connection between children and their natural environment is to interest them in feeding and identifying the many types of bird that visit settings at this time of year.
In praise of tummy time
Authors: Day Lin
Published: May 2014

Putting babies on their stomachs has received some poor press in recent years, however, it aids crawling and plays a vital part of their early physical and social development, as Dr Lin Day explains.
The importance of being four
Authors: Rogers Sue
Published: May 2014

With increasing numbers of four-year-olds entering primary schools, Dr Sue Rogers explains why our provision needs to focus on the importance of children being four, rather than on them becoming five.
ICT and the digital natives
Authors: Price Harriet
Published: May 2014

We know that ICT is now an integral part of the Early Years Foundation Stage but how should we go about embedding it? Harriet Price, ICT advisor at Homerton Children’s Centre in Cambridge, explains.
Keys to a better future
Authors: Peterson Lorraine
Published: May 2014

Lorraine Peterson explains how early intervention helps to ensure that every child, no matter what their requirements, is included in an education system that meets their individual and unique needs.
A strong sense of place
Authors: Barber Jenny
Published: May 2014

It will soon be a statutory requirement to offer both child-initiated and planned activities in an outdoor environment. Now is the time to assess what you already offer and plan for what needs to be improved.
Creating brighter futures
Authors: Hope Christine
Published: May 2014

How do practitioners who have become Early Years Professionals regard the qualification, and what impact has gaining the status had on their working lives? Christine Hope has been finding out.
Food for thought: Eating well and healthy development
Authors: Summerside Kate
Published: May 2014

Childhood obesity concerns have sparked a junk food backlash, but recent reports suggest that we may be harming children by going too far down the healthy eating route, as Kate Summerside explains.
Make room for writing
Authors: Barber Jenny
Published: May 2014

There are many practical activities that can support and improve the essential communication, literacy and language skills that children need to get the best start in life, as Jenny Barber explains.
Extending free places
Authors: Gordon-Smith Pat
Published: May 2014

The proposed extension of free provision to 20,000 of the country's most disadvantaged children has been largely welcomed by the sector, though not without reservations, says Pat Gordon-Smith.
How to solve a problem like numeracy
Authors: Allingham Sue
Published: May 2014

Although the content of the numeracy area of learning has not changed, its subtle name change highlights the importance of developing young children's problem solving and reasoning skills.
The early signs of life
Authors: Day Lin
Published: May 2014

Parents may become frustrated when trying to understand their babies, which is why signing can prove beneficial to communication, bonding and potentially to future learning ability, as Dr Lin Day explains.
Our roles and responsibilities
Authors: Parkin Philip
Published: May 2014

The ever-increasing burden being placed on schools and settings by the government and society as a whole is a cause for concern. Philip Parkin says it is time that parents take back their responsibilities.
See how the mice run
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

These rhymes focus on the adventures of mice, giving you plenty of opportunities to explore the Early Learning Goals, with particular emphasis on problem solving, reasoning and numeracy skills.
The world is just a stage
Authors: Leeper Marion
Published: May 2014

Imaginative role-play and the ability to recast experiences using storytelling form vital components in a child's attempt to make sense of their lives and the world they live in, as Marion Leeper explains.
Virtual learning reality
Authors: Hindmarch Sonali
Published: May 2014

Professional development and training are vital for providing high quality childcare, however, it can be both time consuming and costly for settings, which is why online training is becoming more popular.
Unlocking the language of the early years
Authors: Allingham Sue
Published: May 2014

Practitioners are inundated with policy and guidance that contain many phrases and terms that are often misinterpreted and misquoted. Sue Allingham examines the language of the early years.
The concrete jungle
Authors: Milchem Katherine
Published: May 2014

Forest Schools are becoming increasingly popular across the UK, and not just in rural areas, there are an increasing number of urban settings turning to the natural world, as Katherine Milchem explains.
Multiple intelligences
Authors: Pound Linda
Published: May 2014

The question of intelligence is never far from discussions about learning and development, but what does it mean? Gardner believes we need to focus on ‘how’ we are intelligent, rather than ‘how much’.
Free to communicate
Authors: Jarman Elizabeth
Published: May 2014

The spaces and environments in which we ask young children to learn will have a direct impact on the quality of their development, yet this important area is still neglected in too many of our settings.
Does this sickening society have a cure?
Authors: Henty Neil
Published: May 2014

THERE HAS been one story dominating both the television and the newspapers in the past few weeks. As I write, the government and assorted agencies involved in child and social care are struggling to fi nd out just why another child has been failed so spectacularly by the system that is there to help them. Blame will be apportioned, there is no doubt, although we all know that fi nding scapegoats, no matter how loud the tabloids call for it, will not be enough, by itself, to act as a catalyst for change.
A childminding year in review
Authors: Simpson Maggie
Published: May 2014

The Scottish Childminding Association used its recent annual general meeting to not only review its achievements over the past year, but also to launch its new Community Childminding Service.
Experience the wild life
Authors: Bromley Helen
Published: May 2014

A good picture book has the ability to weave words and pictures into a seamless, enchanting and powerful narrative, which is exactly what Simon James achieves in his works about the natural world.
Olfactory experiences
Authors: Day Lin
Published: May 2014

Research studies show us that a sense of smell develops from within the womb and that early olfactory experiences play a large part in the perception of emotions, memory, attention and even other senses.
Making maths sticky
Authors: Clarke Jenni
Published: May 2014

Following on from last month's eye Focus article, Jenni Clarke provides a number of activities that will act as starting points for practitioners who want to put the messy fun back into learning maths.
Social networking policies
Authors: Tanuku Purnima
Published: May 2014

Is social networking just harmless fun or does it pose a serious problem? Purnima Tanuku explains why nurseries must have a clear policy in relation to websites and messages posted by staff members.
Focus on mirror neurons
Authors: Pound Linda
Published: May 2014

The field of neuroscience is helping to cast fresh insight into the biological mechanisms of learning and development. Such recent discoveries include mirror neurons that help children learn by imitation.
Working with wood
Authors: Storey Brenda
Published: May 2014

Woodworking incorporates a range of safe and stimulating activities that provide children, especially the physically active ones, with meaningful learning opportunities and foundations for real-life skills.
Grandparents for the long-term
Authors: Fletcher Andrew
Published: May 2014

At present, grandparents can only remain as a registered childminder, if they look after other children in addition to their own grandchildren. NCMA, however, believes this short-term attitude is wrong.
Special Treasures
Authors: Dixon Peter
Published: May 2014

MRS HARPOON waved a sheet of extra special looking A4 pink paper. ‘Now I know most of you dislike pink papers from the education office, but this one is good news for us. Our lords and masters have given us a little bit of extra money to employ an extra pair of hands for four mornings a week. I propose that our new appointment should be employed to work in the corridor area between the boys' toilet door and the new rubber plants. There is plenty of room for a table and she can get on with laminating, making labels, and doing little jobs like mounting work for displays perfectly comfortably.’
Freshen up your thinking
Authors: Barlow Mary
Published: May 2014

In the final article of her three-part look at the Beginning with Babies project, Mary Barlow describes the changes made by the three Lincolnshire nurseries to their practice as a result of their participation.
If I can do it, so can you
Authors: Hussein Deborah
Published: May 2014

Early Years Professional Status is not just for young, upwardly mobile, career-minded practitioners, it is for all those who believe that hard work and commitment is the key to fulfilling their inner potential.
Voluntary settings
Authors: Pearse Sally
Published: May 2014

In the second part of our series examining leadership in the early years, Sally Pearse explores the unique set of challenges faced by managers working in voluntary and community-based settings.
Learning with a twist
Authors: Madhavji Bhavani
Published: May 2014

Bhavani Madhavji explains how, as an early years professional, she was inspired to incorporate yoga-based techniques into her daily routine, to improve the learning and development of young children.
Earth calling children
Authors: Brunton Pat , Thornton Linda
Published: May 2014

Practitioners can use the natural environment to encourage young children to engage in meaningful investigations based upon their own unique interests, experiences and understanding of planet Earth.
Dance by the light of the bridges we burn
Authors: Henty Neil
Published: May 2014

THE ‘NATURE’ of the early years and childhood comes up often in articles and conversations, and deciding what early education is, how it should be applied and to whom is central to debate among all levels of the sector, right up through the halls of government. It certainly crops up in a number of times this month. Tess Lamond's article [Reawaken our wonder] serves as a reaffirmation of the passion we need to feel when working with our youngest children, she states that we need to ‘reawaken our sense of wonder in the world’, and that ‘children are tireless explorers in our world’.
The Care Commission cuts back
Authors: Simpson Maggie
Published: May 2014

Following the Scottish government's announcement that it backs proposals to cut back on inspections of highly graded childminders, the Care Commission has revealed its own plans to revitalise regulation.
Digital policies due for review
Authors: Tanuku Purnima
Published: May 2014

Should nurseries allow use of mobile phones and digital cameras? There are distinct differences between the two and all settings should ensure they do not allow concerns to impact on quality.
Oh, we do like to be beside the seaside
Authors: Henty Neil
Published: May 2014

AS I write this, at the end of March, there are plenty of visible signs that spring is springing up all around us. The sun is starting to shower us with warmth. In fact, I recently went to the beach for the first time this year, although truth be told, I was not tempted in the slightest to venture anywhere near the sea itself! Still, it was nice to get out and about, with the sun out, warming the breeze. Birds were singing, daffodils had stopped hiding and life was good.
Childminding services
Authors: Garrick Rosalind
Published: May 2014

The importance of leadership in early years settings is understood, and although traditionally this has never really applied in childminding contexts, the changing nature of the role requires new strategies.
How children use graphics to support mathematical thinking
Authors: Carruthers Elizabeth
Published: May 2014

Sometimes described as a minefield, the teaching of mathematics in settings can be frustrating, which is why it is important that we acknowledge children's own attempts to represent numerical concepts.
Create a happy place to be
Authors: Storey Brenda
Published: May 2014

Brenda Storey explains why young children thrive in settings that are comfortable, provide a positive atmosphere, where they feel they truly ‘belong’, and exactly how we can provide those environments.
Catch a golden goose
Authors: Leeper Marion
Published: May 2014

Chain stories are among the simplest and most widespread of all folktales, providing an easy model upon which children can base their own stories and perfect for those displaying connecting schemas.
Catching it all on camera
Authors: Barber Jenny
Published: May 2014

With the rise of digital cameras and the ability to take pictures on mobile phones, our young children have more opportunities than ever to integrate photography into their daily learning and development.
Special Treasures
Authors: Dixon Peter
Published: May 2014

THE LOADS on builders’ lorries did not usually excite Ms Goodivey's interest, but this one did. It was a gem of a load – designed to meet the needs of the most unimaginative teachers in the kingdom of early years education.
Taking acceptable risks
Authors: Horvath Judit
Published: May 2014

Judit Horvath explores the importance of providing ample opportunities for taking risk in the early years and warns against the many dangers of bringing young children up in risk-free environments.
Road safety awareness
Authors: Perry Caroline
Published: May 2014

This year's Road Safety Week runs from 22-28 November and organisers, road safety charity Brake, are urging practitioners to educate our young children and to help prevent further tragic loss of life.
Solving real problems
Authors: Bennett Elaine
Published: May 2014

The EYFSP data throws up a number of issues that need addressing, among them how to interpret and provide for scale point 8, with its confusion-causing woolly language about solving practical problems.
Putting the sparkle into science, technology, engineering and maths
Authors: O'Sullivan June
Published: May 2014

Opinions about science, technology, engineering and maths subjects are formed at a young age and can last throughout life, but they can be fun and engaging, using investigation and experimentation.
Promoting language
Authors: Leeper Marion
Published: May 2014

The Every Child a Talker programme has been successful in promoting speech and language skills and what better way to extend its reach and to ensure its continuing impact than to involve families.
Your insurance policies
Authors: Sharman Del
Published: May 2014

Del Sharman discusses how choosing your insurance is one of the most important decisions you will have to make for your business, and advises on how to keep an eye on the cost of your policy.
Transforming early years: Developing better, lower cost models for families
Authors: Gillinson Sarah , McEaney Claire
Published: May 2014

Transforming Early Years is a programme that aims to beat the recession and impending budget cuts by developing different, better, lower cost models of support for families with very young children.
Seasons of adventure
Authors: Sargent Marianne
Published: May 2014

Provocations are a powerful method of stimulating children's learning and encouraging open-ended planning that is both fl exible and responsive to children's needs, whether as a group or as individuals.
Learn to build with cob
Authors: Francis-Pester Dawn
Published: May 2014

Dawn Francis-Pester explains how trampling mud can prove inspirational, encouraging teachers to use cob as a creative material that can be crafted into either a single tile or even a whole classroom.
Learn something new
Authors: Day Lin
Published: May 2014

Every child boasts a combination of unique abilities, the development of which is shaped by the style of learning that suits them at any particular developmental stage, and which side of the brain dominates.
Children services need protection
Authors: Longfield Anne
Published: May 2014

We can all agree that Sure Start Children's Centres and the opportunities for change they provide are having a major impact, but now they are under threat despite government claims of financial backing.
An accessible leader
Authors: Jefferies Tina
Published: May 2014

As a leader, your perception of how the staff team views you may differ from their experience of how open, consistent and approachable you really are, which makes it vital that you audit your accessibility.
Montessori accreditation
Authors: Dows-Miller Michele
Published: May 2014

The Montessori Evaluation and Accreditation Board accreditation scheme provides an assurance that benefits parents, children, teachers and settings, offering a clear message of quality provision.
Believing in children
Authors: Horvath Judit
Published: May 2014

Judit Horvath spends time with the Danish Reggio Emilia Network, exploring ways of creating our own pedagogy, highlighting the importance of learning about different approaches for reflective practice.
Life in another language
Authors: Leeper Marion
Published: May 2014

We do not always learn the most from the times when things go ‘right’. In the fi nal article of her current series, Marion Leeper, shares a singing activity that ‘went off the rails’, only to prove its worth in the end.
Endless possibilities
Authors: Sargent Marianne
Published: May 2014

This series has so far looked at open-ended planning and enabling environments, however, this month we examine the importance of using observation for both planning and developing provocations.
The best place to learn
Authors: Jones Hazel
Published: May 2014

Identifying the key features of a quality learning environment for young children, that best supports their independence and open-ended thinking, should be at the forefront of planning in our settings.
Still many lessons to learn
Authors: Pritchard Tricia
Published: May 2014

The recent serious case review concerning abuse at a nursery in Plymouth has raised fresh questions over the rigorousness of the safeguarding and inspection process, and of employment procedures.
Language of numbers
Authors: Bennett Elaine
Published: May 2014

Mathematical vocabulary has evolved from the time when most practitioners were at school, it now involves working with others to solve problems, to explain reasoning and to justify ideas and thinking.
A day out at the theatre
Authors: Anidi Devona
Published: May 2014

When planning day trips and excursions, a visit to the theatre may not be too high on your list. However, a great deal of planning goes into any production for early years children, and they have much to offer.
Small spaces outside
Authors: Clarke Jenni
Published: May 2014

Creating secure, fun spaces outside does not need to be expensive or time consuming, but practitioners may not be secure in their knowledge of how such provision meets the development matters guidance
Going back to the shop floor: putting ideas into practice
Authors: Bryce-Clegg Alistair
Published: May 2014

For managers, consultants and advisors, the chance to get back to your roots and to put your advice, knowledge and ideas into practice on the ‘shop floor’ will have great benefit and should not be missed.
Opening a window to the world
Authors: Tanuku Purnima
Published: May 2014

Purnima Tanuku explains why all nurseries and early years settings should consider investing in an up-to-date and manageable website to share more about their services with prospective parents.
What we can learn from… A birthday party
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: May 2014

The very thought of becoming a year older fascinates and excites most children, which means they will be more than engaged in their learning if you decide to embark on a birthday-themed topic.
Making quite a mark
Authors: Bennett Elaine
Published: May 2014

Emergent writing will be a familiar concept for many, however, just as important, though not as widely supported, is the area of ‘mathematical mark making’, which can represent a child's thought processes.
Prevent dental anxiety
Authors: Carter Nigel
Published: May 2014

Educating our yongest children on the benefits of good oral health practice cannot be overlooked. With proven links between gum disease, type 2 diabetes and heart disease, dental education must start early.
Where the wind takes us
Authors: Sargent Marianne
Published: May 2014

The beauty of using provocations is that they are so open-ended that they allow for flexible planning opportunities, especially when introducing a transport topic that can let children's imaginations fly.
How talk impacts on writing
Authors: Bryce-Clegg Alistair
Published: May 2014

Learning how to form letters and words, and then sentences is not a simple exercise in instruction, what matters more is that emergent writers have something to write about that really interests them.
Just potty about plants
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

This article explores plants and all green things that grow. The activities include starting points, circle game warm-ups and mime games, together with suggestions for role-play areas and drama scenarios.
Holistic interactions
Authors: Lamond Tess
Published: May 2014

How many of us would be able to say that they regularly took stock and analysed the daily interactions in their setting? Evidence is showing that how we communicate with children is as vital as what we say.
Days and works of hands
Authors: Sharpe Deborah
Published: May 2014

Young children often find the concept of time, and events occurring in specific months, years and on particular dates, to be confusing, which means it can be a rewarding practical subject to explore.
Investigate and detect
Authors: Sargent Marianne
Published: May 2014

Provocations can be used to develop creative thinking skills in children, promoting quality interaction and discussions that will aid investigation and detection when linked to a People Who Help Us theme.
From rote to intuition
Authors: Willis Richard
Published: May 2014

Johann Pestalozzi's life is a tale of contrasting fortunes; while every business venture was doomed to fail, his theories on early educational experiences has left a profound mark that lasts to this day.
Open-ended resources
Authors: Storey Brenda
Published: May 2014

Providing for high-quality open-ended, or free-flow, play requires strategic thinking and must start with an evaluation of how existing resources can be utilised effectively, including members of staff.
Let's talk about books
Authors: Stevens Judith
Published: May 2014

Encouraging good vocabulary, reading and listening skills involves much more than simply reading a story out loud to children from beginning to end. Dialogic book talk offers a much richer experience.
Giving children choices
Authors: Sharpe Deborah
Published: May 2014

It would be remiss of practitioners to assume that the ability to make informed choices is something that comes easily to children. They need to be encouraged and supported in the decisions they make.
The motion of numerals
Authors: McGrath Caroline
Published: May 2014

How can we support the formation of numerals? Children who are asked to write too early will often develop habits that are difficult to change. The association of a story can secure correct stroke motion.
We are missing the boat
Authors: Moss Peter
Published: May 2014

Early years care and education in New Zealand is held up in almost universal high regard, but how many people actually know that much about it and that it remains very much a work in progress.
Good elf and happiness
Authors: Sargent Marianne
Published: May 2014

The final article in our provocations series takes the festivity and fun of the Christmas season and offers examples of how to engage children in activities that they can take in their own directions of learning.
Lands of snow and ice
Authors: Bromley Helen
Published: May 2014

This 12-part series offers a month-by-month guide for practitioners working outdoors with young children, supporting them and helping you celebrate, whatever the weather - this month, December.
Starting from the child
Authors: Francis Joanna
Published: May 2014

Many people dream of setting up their own nursery, but what motives, interests and beliefs would drive you, and how would you ensure that children were central to the provision you and your staff offered.
England
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: May 2014

This is the first article in a series that will look at different countries and will use their characteristics, identity and peoples as starting points for practical activities and learning - this month, England.
Tips to tackle aggression
Authors: Psenakova Lucia
Published: May 2014

Child behaviour experts and educational psychologists reveal their most effective, tried and tested methods and tactics for dealing with young children's aggressive behaviour in early years classrooms.
Sugar, spice, stereotypes
Authors: Doyle Phoebe
Published: May 2014

All things nice? Phoebe Doyle suggests that literature can be used to promote critical thinking, and to challenge, traditional gender stereotypes about what it means to be a boy or a girl in today's world.
The essential role of information
Authors: Shukla Anand
Published: May 2014

Changes to funding for early education and childcare make it even more vital that government fully funds and supports Family Information Services and that local authorities meet their duties in this area.
Scotland
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: May 2014

This is the second article in a series looking at different countries that will use their characteristics, identity and peoples as starting points for practical activities and learning - this month, Scotland.
Visualising daily routines
Authors: Roberts Robyn
Published: May 2014

Robyn Roberts examines the practical use of visual timetables and explores a number of ways that they can be implemented successfully for children of all needs and abilities in an early years setting.
What we can learn from… Sleeping Beauty
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: May 2014

The final instalment of our series exploring practical activities based on classic fairytales, uses Sleeping Beauty's triumph of good over evil, as the starting point for learning and role-play.
More important than ever
Authors: Fairchild Nikki
Published: May 2014

Early years professionals find themselves at the centre of great policy changes affecting the sector, including the current review of qualifications and training, but are they still the future of the workforce? Very much so.
Feedback and progress
Authors: Miller Rebecca
Published: May 2014

When tackling difficult conversations, the art of giving feedback is high on the list, but how do we stop what should be a constructive discussion from descending into personal and unnecessary criticism?
Performing with puppets
Authors: Finlayson Keri
Published: May 2014

This month we explore ways to enhance language and listening skills by creating short puppet plays, including how to make different types of puppets and stages, and how to actively watch and listen.
A game of give and take
Authors: Stevens Judith , Skinner Carole
Published: May 2014

Mathematics has been identified as one of four specific areas of learning in the revised Early Years Foundation Stage, with two key parts; this article focuses on ideas and activities for exploring the concept of calculation.
Eye can see clearly now
Authors: Sharpe Deborah
Published: May 2014

How do children feel about the need to wear glasses? Do they know why some children and adults do, while others do not? This article has practical activities for taking the mystery out of eyes and opticians.
Working with shapes
Authors: Stevens Judith , Skinner Carole
Published: May 2014

In the fourth article in our series looking at mathematics in the revised Early Years Foundation Stage, we focus on providing a learning environment that supports and develops children's knowledge and understanding of shape.)
Take a Leaf of the Senses
Authors: Bromley Helen
Published: May 2014

In this 12-part series, Helen Bromley explores resources, that are either free or relatively cheap, that can help you make the most of your outdoor environment – this month, the autumnal, sensory joy of leaves.
Prone to early problems
Authors: Day Lin
Published: May 2014

There has been an increase in the number of babies suffering from head shape deformities over the past few years, which is often linked to the overuse of restraining devices and prone sleeping positions.
Standing up for care
Authors: Jefferies Tina
Published: May 2014

The number of training and professional development courses that have care as a core focus is far too small and reflects the emphasis on education in the sector, something that leaders must address.
The Revised EYFS: Putting Principles into Practice
Authors: Wilcox Liz
Published: May 2014

We have been working with the revised foundation stage for around three months. This extract is designed as a refresher, an aid to reflection on certain aspects, especially putting ‘principles into practice’.
The free entitlement challenge
Authors: Shukla Anand
Published: May 2014

The expansion to offering 40 percent of two-year-olds free entitlement to 15-hours of early education a week has become one of the main talking points in the sector and has highlighted key challenges.
The Essence of Learning
Authors: Clarke Jenni
Published: May 2014

The fourth article in our series focusing on playing with babies, aimed especially at giving confidence to practitioners working in the baby room for the first time, explores activities linked to the sense of smell.
Having trouble sleeping
Authors: Dawson Vicki
Published: May 2014

Upwards of 40 percent of children in settings will experience sleep problems that affect development, and practitioners will need to recognise the signs and know how to offer appropriate support to families.
Environments for babies
Authors: Day Louise
Published: May 2014

Babies are full of wonder and are constantly exploring and learning, which is why we need to create environments and provide resources that provide new experiences that will support and develop them.
Better communication
Authors: Beardshaw Virginia
Published: May 2014

The Better Communication report was the outcome of a comprehensive evaluation of speech, language and communication needs in the UK, but what implications will its findings have for early years services?
Forest School, the EYFS and birth to three
Authors: Doyle Jenny , Milchem Katherine
Published: May 2014

Forest Schools are a major success story, but how does the movement meet the requirements of the revised foundation stage, and how does it meet the needs of children in the birth to three age range?
No nearer to a fairer policy
Authors: Lloyd Eva
Published: May 2014

Our politicians seem to be struggling to come up with a fair, workable and beneficial set of policies for providing high quality, early childhood provision for all children in the UK, regardless of background.
Signs of sensory overload
Authors: Day Lin
Published: May 2014

Sensory stimulation is vital for healthy development, especially of language, social and motor skills, but with the constant barrage of the modern world, being over-stimulated is a real cause for concern.
Schoolification of the early years
Authors: Brodie Kathy
Published: May 2014

Amid concerns about ratios and the agency model for childminders, one aspect of More Great Childcare that has gone largely unreported are the passages that draw the early years sector ever closer to schools.
New Zealand
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: May 2014

This month, we continue our series of articles featuring different countries from around the world by taking a look at a beautiful country of such stunning and diverse landscapes; New Zealand.
Having a conversation
Authors: Rivolta Heidi
Published: May 2014

Building a lexicon of individual words is a good way of introducing a new language, however, it is only natural to want to hold conversations, and what better start than by asking how someone is?
What we can learn from… The Caribbean
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: May 2014

This month, we continue our series of articles featuring different countries and continents from around the world by looking at the wonderfully diverse and cultural region we call the Caribbean.
Effective environments
Authors: Bryce-Clegg Alistair
Published: May 2014

The first part of a 12-month series, that will explore creating effective learning environments for early learning, begins by looking at ways of starting from scratch and the need to give children ‘ownership’.
Joined-up learning works
Authors: Kiely Teresa
Published: May 2014

Early years settings, schools and children's centres provide for the needs of our youngest children and their families in a wide range of ways. But how can they be better supported to ‘act together’?
Trauma and its affect on learning and behaviour
Authors: Jones Jennifer
Published: May 2014

We will all, unfortunately, experience periods of trauma in our lives, and suffer to some extent, but imagine what effects prolonged exposure to such events will have on a young child and their learning.
Ofsted report lacks practical support
Authors: Leitch Neil , Tanuku Purnima
Published: May 2014

MA Education Ltd, St Jude's Church, Dulwich Road, London, SE24 0PB. neil.henty@markallengroup.com
Dealing with feelings
Authors: Dukes Chris , Smith Maggie
Published: May 2014

Supportive adults will have insight into the emotional needs of two-year-olds; they are sympathetic and caring, while gently guiding children to deal with their feelings and any resulting upsets or behaviours.
Toddlers are entitled
Authors: Day Louise
Published: May 2014

The extension of the free entitlement offer for vulnerable two-year-olds has provided many a talking point and plenty of challenges for the sector, but it has also created opportunities to extend your reach.
Woolly Jumpers are go!
Authors: Wilson Laura
Published: May 2014

Laura Wilson offers some suggestions on how to make this year's Sport Relief a day to remember, with a little help from that lovable lamb, Timmy, while helping children learn more about the world.
Disqualifications need more clarity
Authors: Tanuku Purnima
Published: May 2014

MA Education Ltd, St Jude's Church, Dulwich Road, London, SE24 0PB. neil.henty@markallengroup.com
Big wide-mouthed frog
Authors: Leeper Marion
Published: May 2014

This is the first article in a series that will look at how even the simplest story can help children to explore the world, helping inquiring minds and observant children down the path of scientific thinking.
The colours of my car
Authors: Rivolta Heidi
Published: May 2014

This series has explored the use of traditional French nursery rhymes and songs to introduce action words and phrases – this month, we focus on a non-traditional song, J'aime les voitures [I like cars].
Say ‘no’ to more two-year-olds in schools
Authors: Hadland Cheryl
Published: May 2014

MA Education Ltd, St Jude's Church, Dulwich Road, London, SE24 0PB. neil.henty@markallengroup.com
Natural born curiosity
Authors: Dukes Chris , Smith Maggie
Published: May 2014

In part two our article, we look at schemas, learning styles and planning for activities and resources to support the characteristics of effective learning, when creating an environment for playing and learning.
Teachers will improve quality
Authors: Taylor Charlie
Published: May 2014

Chief executive, Charlie Taylor, explains how the National College for Teaching and Leadership is supporting the introduction of more high-quality graduates into the early years education workforce.