bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Telford and Wrekin
Authors: Baxter Michael
Published: May 2014

The early years partnership in Telford and Wrekin, near Wolverhampton, has made a lot of progress since its beginning. Here Michael Baxter explains what has been achieved and how.
Are students better off with new courses?
Authors: Barber Jenny
Published: May 2014

Jenny Barber on the introduction of the Diploma in Childcare and Education and the latest changes to the Certificate in Childcare and Education.
What I have learnt from Italian model
Authors: Solly Kathryn
Published: May 2014

Kathryn Solly went to Reggio Emilia and was inspired. When she returned to London, she put what she had observed into practice, with wonderful results.
A stretch in time helps children learn
Authors: McIlvain Audrey
Published: May 2014

The foundation stage is about laying the basis for future learning. This includes learning how to learn. Audrey McIlvain has a few helpful tips to maximise results.
UNLIKEABLE CHILDREN
Authors: Casswell Geraldine
Published: May 2014

Some children are more difficult to care for than others. Some even display such challenging behaviour that educators themselves, let alone parents, do not always know how to handle them. Geraldine Casswell explains why it is all about learning to communicate.
Awareness is crucial for success
Authors: Blackmore Diane
Published: May 2014

How can early years practitioners help deaf children on their learning journey? Diane Blackmore has some valuable advice.
We are all members of the community
Authors: Bayley Ros
Published: May 2014

It is never too early to teach young children about citizenship issues. Ros Bayley on how to maximise opportunities for learning in early years settings.
Promoting play in the strategy
Authors: Tucker Kate
Published: May 2014

Kate Tucker on how play and independent learning can be an integral part of the daily numeracy lesson in a mixed-aged classroom.
Meningitis
Authors: Walker Robert
Published: May 2014

What is meningitis? And what should you do if you suspect a child in your care is affected by the disease? Dr Robert Walker has some advice.
Jumping onto a good idea to teach maths
Authors: Tucker Kate
Published: May 2014

Interesting activities with large number lines can help young children understand the number system better. Kate Tucker explains.
How to make your business more appealing
Authors: Carter Peers
Published: May 2014

Are you thinking of selling your business in the near future? Peers Carter has some advice to make your nursery more attractive to potential buyers.
Exploring the world around us: More than just seeing
Authors: Johnston Jane
Published: May 2014

Children in the early years should be encouraged to observe the world around them carefully. Jane Johnston on how you can support their learning.
Assistants are not ‘teachers on the cheap’
Authors: Peyre Marie
Published: May 2014

Recent plans to increase the responsibilities of classroom assistants have caused much controversy among teachers and other professionals working in schools, as Cate Campbell found out in our News Focus article (see page 8). The proposed changes, which education secretary Estelle Morris wants to introduce to help alleviate teachers' workload, are likely to affect many working in early years settings too. And their opinion on the matter is still divided. There are, I think, several issues to contemplate here.
Are around-the-clock nurseries the way to go?
Authors: Souchet Maryline , Horvath Martine
Published: May 2014

Working mother. One child going to nursery five afternoons a week. This probably describes the majority of working mothers. But let's face it – these days, more people than we think work outside, or beyond, the Monday to Friday, nine to five pattern.
Physical changes that take place from birth to one
Authors: Code Joanna
Published: May 2014

In our new babies and toddlers section, Joanna Code this month looks at the physical development of babies from birth to the age of one.
Taking a look at the revised code of practice
Authors: Rutter Angie
Published: May 2014

Angie Rutter explains the main changes to the revised special educational needs code of practice, and its implications for schools.
How the Teletubbies can become your next teaching tool
Authors: Bromley Helen
Published: May 2014

Helen Bromley on why early years professionals must recognise the importance of popular culture in children's lives… and learning.
Should children be given the MMR vaccine?
Authors: Bedford Helen , Harris Jonathan
Published: May 2014

What should parents do to protect their children against measles, mumps and rubella? Have the combined MMR vaccine? Get single vaccines? Do nothing?
Early detection is the key to future success
Authors: Hornsby Bevé
Published: May 2014

The sooner dyslexia is diagnosed, the more effecive is remediation. Bevé Hornsby outlines a pre-school programme of language skills.
A day in the life of Claire Pounder
Authors: Pounder Claire
Published: May 2014

Every Saturday morning, Claire Pounder is in charge of a Fit Kid class for pre-schoolers at a leisure centre in Newham. Here she says why she likes it so much.
How video viewing can help develop language skills
Authors: Thompson Philippa , Marsh Jackie
Published: May 2014

Philippa Thompson and Jackie Marsh on an innovative project that helps develop children's language skills while engaging their interest.
Should there be a total ban on smacking?
Authors: Samphier Tony , Calvert Simon
Published: May 2014

Equal protection is every child's right. Yet, though children are the smallest and most vulnerable of people, the law allowing ‘reasonable chastisement’ means that they have less protection from being hit in the home than adults. It just doesn't make sense.
One acquired sense that makes our food so enjoyable
Authors: Longhorn Flo
Published: May 2014

Flo Longhorn explains how to develop a taste programme to encourage a wider acceptance of tastes, textures and smells of food.
Should we use electronic tags to track children?
Authors: Gaylard Nigel , Sullivan Karen
Published: May 2014

Electronic tagging devices for children need not be controversial. They are the logical next step in an environment characterised by security issues. Safety is a high-profile subject in schools, especially for younger children who are particularly vulnerable as they have not yet gained a full appreciation of the potential risks within their environment.
SATs are changing: Good news or bad?
Authors: Campbell Cate
Published: May 2014

Cate Campbell discusses the new ‘flexible’ approach to key stage 1 testing, explaining how it will affect those in the foundation stage.
Top stones JEWELS
Authors: Milmine Lesley
Published: May 2014

A project on gemstones provides a real wealth of learning opportunities, as Lesley Milmine so aptly demonstrates.
Let them develop by using their own imaginations
Authors: Etheredge Jenny
Published: May 2014

Jenny Etheredge explores how children's imaginations help develop their emotional intelligence and lead them in their learning.
Why the first years of a child's life are so vital
Authors: Langston Ann
Published: May 2014

The Birth to Three Matters framework has real relevance to all early years practitioners, explains Ann Langston.
The battlelines are drawn over childcare
Authors: Allen James
Published: May 2014

SOMETHING REMARKABLE is happening. It seems that the battle for our votes next year is being fought away from the traditional battlegrounds that are the economy, health and crime. Rather, it looks as if the centrepiece of the political manifestos of both the Labour Party and the Conservative Party will actually be childcare. On the same day in early November, 2004, Tony Blair and the Conservative leader, Michael Howard, made head to head speeches over their respective plans for a choice-rich and flexible childcare system. Political editors up and down the land could be forgiven for thinking that this was a very strange day indeed.
You can count on your children to have fun
Authors: Etheredge Jenny
Published: May 2014

Jenny Etheredge explains how using familiar objects and routines can help children understand numerical language.
GO TO SLEEP!
Authors: Sullivan Karen
Published: May 2014

A good night's sleep is an essential part of a child's health and development. Karen Sullivan looks at how a regular routine at bedtime can instil good sleep habits
Keep your promises now election is won
Authors: Campbell Cate
Published: May 2014

Cate Campbell considers the future of early years provision now the general election has been decided.
An arch INTEREST
Authors: Milmine Lesley
Published: May 2014

Bridges are among the world's oldest and most iconic structures. Lesley Milmine explores activities designed to get children thinking about the different types of bridges and their importance.
Should everyone live happily ever after in stories?
Authors: Stead Kay , Munro Senga
Published: May 2014

I'm ever so fond of the story of the Three Little Pigs. It's the story of the triumph of good over evil, the industrious over the lazy and the hunted over the hunter. Its core message is that if you work hard, think for yourself and behave sensibly, you'll be fine. That's a good message for a four-year-old to hear.
Keeping records can unlock a child's potential
Authors: Brunton Pat , Thornton Linda
Published: May 2014

Pat Brunton and Linda Thornton discuss the importance of recording young children's ideas, learning processes and theories.
Providing groups of items will stimulate learning
Authors: Brunton Pat , Thornton Linda
Published: May 2014

Collections provide an excellent starting point for investigation and discussions. Pat Brunton and Linda Thornton explain why.
Parents must be made to feel equal with practitioners
Authors: Wall Kate
Published: May 2014

In the second part of her series, Kate Wall examines why it is necessary for staff to consider the different needs of parents.
Let's give boys a helping hand to be more caring
Authors: Thornton Stephanie
Published: May 2014

Denounced by scientists in the 1980s, popular opinion holds that girls are more compassionate than boys, but what do today's experts believe?
Why settings must ensure they are safe havens for children
Authors: Lane Jane
Published: May 2014

Jane Lane explains why it is necessary to tackle head-on, the fears and tensions arising in settings following the recent terrorist attacks.
Remember, we are all rowing in the same direction
Authors: Wall Kate
Published: May 2014

In the third part of her series, Kate Wall looks at the issues that need to be addressed to develop partnerships with parents.
Feeling the rhythm works wonders for children's reading
Authors: Potter Emma-Lee
Published: May 2014

In a second look at the potential benefits of music on children's learning, Emma-Lee Potter looks at three new approaches.
For a truly balanced workforce we need to attract more men
Authors: Wall Kate
Published: May 2014

In the fourth part of her series, Kate Wall begins to unravel the issues relating to fathers and men in the early years workforce.
For once, lawyer-speak makes sense
Authors: Henty Neil
Published: May 2014

For this month’s editorial, I must admit I was stuck, thought processes seized in place. Not, of course, because of the lack of things to write about, as the early years landscape shifts and changes like the very seasons themselves. No, this month I wanted something to leap out and grab me, to literally slap me in the face and demand that I make an issue of it, take umbrage of it, or highlight and promote it. For all the worthy causes out there, I remained unmoved, until I opened the Sunday papers and read one simple quote almost buried in an interview in one of the glossy magazines. I saw it late, as well.
Homemade games are just the thing for young learners
Authors: Dickson John
Published: May 2014

ICT can make a valuable contribution to learning, and as John Dickson explains, it is possible to make your own game to meet specific needs.
Children are best placed to help you make decisions
Authors: Keating Hilary
Published: May 2014

Hilary Keating looks at one borough council that has put together its own strategy to improve children’s participation in their own learning.
Emergent writers need not be left on the shelf
Authors: Stewart Mark
Published: May 2014

The needs of left-handed children are often overlooked during the establishment of handwriting habits, as Mark Stewart explains.
Learning the art of expression in an enchanted garden
Authors: Wright Gill
Published: May 2014

In the first of three articles Gill Wright introduces an action research project carried out by Crossens Nursery School in Sefton.
The new year can mean a whole new school for some
Authors: Harris Leila
Published: May 2014

The transition from the foundation stage to key stage 1 can be difficult, especially as Leila Harris explains, if the change occurs in January.
HITTING!
Authors: Sullivan Karen
Published: May 2014

Children resort to striking, hitting or lashing out for a wide variety of reasons, as Karen Sullivan explains.
If you give flight to dreams you will reap lofty rewards
Authors: Wright Gill
Published: May 2014

Gill Wright looks at the next phase of the Enchanted garden project and shows how young children can become competent designers.
Time for early years staff to reflect on their abilities
Authors: Code Joanna
Published: May 2014

Joanna Code provides an overview of a reflective learning framework to support practitioners in meeting the demands of training and inspection.
Putting mud pies, leaves and logs back on the menu
Authors: Parsons Graham
Published: May 2014

One third of children never play outside, but as Graham Parsons explains National School Grounds Week aims to swap sofas for grass and mud.
Bom dia! Thoughts from sunny Brazil
Authors: Henty Neil
Published: May 2014

I am happy to admit that this month's issue has been a bit of a rush. Why so happy,you might ask? Happy, because I have spent much of the last month travelling theeast coast of Brazil. For someone who has not had the pleasure of a holiday inthe sun for some years (Holland and Devon tend not to reach the solar heights ofJuquehy or Ilha Grande), these two weeks spent visiting such a stunning country were botha relief and a distinct pleasure. If you have not been, or have only visited the wonderful cityof Rio de Janeiro, I can highly recommend a visit to the golden sands and lush hillsides ofthe east coast. My only regret was that the rainforests of the west of the country remainedout of reach. Next time, perhaps!
Children need you to help them feel individually valued
Authors: Collins Margaret
Published: May 2014

Margaret Collins looks at how you can promote positive self-esteem in young children and why doing so will boost their potential.
Come rain or shine
Authors: Shelbourne Helen
Published: May 2014

One of the advantages of living in Great Britain is the wonderful range of weather conditions our climate offers. Helen Shelbourne looks at three different types of weather and how they can inform learning in the early years.
DISCIPLINE!
Authors: Sullivan Karen
Published: May 2014

In the last of her articles on discipline, Karen Sullivan concludes her look at using a successful policy of guidance and teaching with young children.
What do children eat in Ecuador?
Authors: Henty Neil
Published: May 2014

By now you will either be sick to the stomach of the World Cup, or be mourning the end of what has been an excellent tournament. The children in your setting or care will more than likely have been affected by the coverage and the enthusiasm, despair, nerves and passion some of the people in their lives. It is hard to ignore, or avoid, if you are not a football fan. For what seemed like months before a whistle had been blown in anger, or a ball kicked with any meaning, newspapers and television shows were full of the build-up: Would this be England’s year? Could anyone beat Brazil? Would an Asian country mount a serious challenge? How would Trinidad & Tobago cope in its first major tournament? Could the African quartet of Ghana, Togo, Angola and the Ivory Coast match the fantastic achievements of Tunisia and Cameroon all those years before?
When childcare becomes a case of open all hours
Authors: Seward Helen
Published: May 2014

Helen Seward looks at extended schools, identifying the relevant professional development options for early years staff.
Learning goals can be supported through music
Authors: O’Connor Maggie
Published: May 2014

Maggie O’Connor details a programme of music training aimed at early years staff, which formed part of the MusicStart project.
Spotting the abuse that threatens children’s outcomes
Authors: Martin Estelle
Published: May 2014

Estelle Martin examines the role early years settings can play in helping children and families affected by domestic violence.
Always consider the power of place on developing ideas
Authors: Brunton Pat , Thornton Linda
Published: May 2014

Pat Brunton and Linda Thornton explain how the organisation of the objects in your setting will have an impact on children's creativity.
Comment dit-on ‘je voudrais apprendre‘ en Franaisçmerci?
Authors: Cosh Jackie
Published: May 2014

There are a great many benefits for children learning additional languages in early years settings, as Jackie Cosh explains.
Continuous provision
Authors: Sutherland Margaret
Published: May 2014

Making materials available to children at all times is just the start of a process that has a direct impact on learning, and as Margaret Sutherland explains, it may not be easy but is worth the effort.
There is no such thing as a free lunch
Authors: Henty Neil
Published: May 2014

AS WE head towards spring and the prospect of warmer, brighter days you may well fi nd yourself dreaming of better times ahead. However, the prospects for many in the PVI sector looks increasingly bleak as the fi nancial realities of the free nursery entitlement hit home. It could be a barren spring and summer for many.
Sustainable futures
Authors: Hindmarch Sonali
Published: May 2014

Sonali Hindmarch talks to Patricia Jackson about the National Day Nurseries Association training course that aims to promote and secure a sustainable future in the ever changing childcare market.
The telly-tot generation
Authors: Hammond Paula
Published: May 2014

The effects of watching television on the youngest of our children are largely negative and are very well researched. But what of the supposed educational value? Paula Hammond investigates.
Detoxification school
Authors: Palmer Sue
Published: May 2014

In the final article of her Toxic Childhood series, Sue Palmer takes a look at a number of different parenting styles and examines the role that schools can play in helping to detoxify childhood.
It is time to get tactile
Authors: Barber Jenny
Published: May 2014

The importance of tactile activities should not be underestimated in a setting because of the vital roles played by touch, taste, smell and sound in a childs development, as Jenny Barber explains.
Children's centres are adding quality
Authors: Bayram Liz
Published: May 2014

The latest phase of the government's children's centre roll-out will happen this year and although many already off er childminding links there is still room for improvement, as Liz Bayram explains.
Foundation stage ICT
Authors: Stevens Judith
Published: May 2014

Judith Stevens shares the ways in which one project in south east London helped practitioners consider the many uses of Information, Communication Technology (ICT) in the foundation stage.
Child wellbeing put into focus by report
Authors: Henty Neil
Published: May 2014

WHOSE FAULT is it? Who should we blame? What can be done? The national newspapers must have rubbed their ink-stained hands with glee when they read the Poverty in Perspective: An Overview of Child Well-being in Rich Countries report from Unicef, which stated rather bleakly that of all the children in the top 21 industrialised nations, the UK's fared the worst [see Letters, p14 and Latest Developments, p12].
Land of the rising sons
Authors: Crosse Kay
Published: May 2014

As a practitioner you will have a working knowledge of practices from other countries, such as Reggio Emilia and Te Whāriki, but do you know your hoikuens from your yochiens? Kay Crosse visits Japan.
Emotional literacy and wellbeing
Authors: Allingham Sue
Published: May 2014

One of the current buzz phrases in the early years is ‘emotional literacy’ and the concept of a child's wellbeing. Sue Allingham explains what we mean by the term and how wellbeing affects learning.
What we can learn from… Messy play
Authors: Stevens Judith
Published: May 2014

In this series we continue to explore how children learn through different areas of their learning environment. This month Judith Stevens focuses on messy play and the opportunities it offers.
I want everything now!
Authors: Hammond Paula
Published: May 2014

Advertisers are aware that young children have an estimated combined spending power of £70 million and, as Paula Hammond explains, it is the role of practitioners to protect children from their influence.
Bringing forests to life: The Awyr Iach Project
Authors: Merriman Eileen
Published: May 2014

With forest schools and woodland learning becoming more popular there is a need to provide relevanttraining opportunities for practitioners. Eileen Merriman details one project that aims to do just that.
Setting out the scene
Authors: Barber Jenny
Published: May 2014

Where would we be without stories to entertain us? They are an essential part of childhood, and life, for that matter. Jenny Barber looks at fun ways of introducing storytelling to early years settings.
Early mathematical development
Authors: Pound Linda
Published: May 2014

Most people, whether young or old lack confidence in their mathematical ability. However, this can all change if you endeavour to make learning maths as fun as possible, as Linda Pound explains.
More than just hot air
Authors: Barber Jenny
Published: May 2014

Children of all ages love playing with balloons, whether at parties, at home, or in their setting. Jenny Barber introduces a number of activities to get you started with this fantastic and cheap resource.
Gifted and talented
Authors: Solly Kathryn
Published: May 2014

The Chelsea Open Air Nursery has been using the Nebraska Starry Night Protocol to identify more able children, and as Kathryn Solly explains, it is proving accurate, practical and inclusive of all.
The Hare and the Tortoise
Authors: Dixon Peter
Published: May 2014

OVER THE years, I have accrued a host of stories associated with pets I have possessed: Reg, the runaway Jack Russell who climbed trees and bit people. George, the cat with 3 legs and the hamster that became the centre of an insurance claim wrangle (No, you can't claim upon the carnage caused by an escaped hamster gnawing and nesting it's way through wardrobes, chests, bags and suitcases. So don't even try!).
Handa and her kangaroo
Authors: Leeper Marion
Published: May 2014

When children and their families work together they can create a range of stories that will surprise and delight in equal measures, even if some start from familiar sources, as Marion Leeper explains.
Learning to love books
Authors: Miller Ruth
Published: May 2014

Whether you work in a nursery, or as a childminder, fostering a love of reading is an important part of helping to develop young children's communication, language and literacy skills, as Ruth Miller explains.
I can hear cows singing
Authors: Heslop Kay
Published: May 2014

Going on a visit offers a wealth of experiences, not usually available within early years settings. In this article Kay Heslop explains how to prepare effectively for such outings, ensuring every child benefits.
Pace of change leaves workforce dizzy
Authors: Parkin Philip
Published: May 2014

Philip Parkin used his address at the PAT conference to discuss the need for the childcare workforce to be given appropriate amounts of time to properly implement new government education policies.
Moving forward as one
Authors: Clark Rory
Published: May 2014

Professional development for practitioners must recognise the multi-disciplinary nature of the field. The University of Worcester's Early Childhood Network offers an exciting new model for post-graduate study.
Key to learning: Vygotsky in practice
Authors: Dolya Galina
Published: May 2014

Key to Learning, based on the work of Vygotsky, is gaining popularity across Europe. In this article, Galina Dolya looks in detail at the curriculum and how it is being implemented in nurseries and schools.
Retaining and motivating quality staff
Authors: Lee Kate
Published: May 2014

Kate Lee takes a look at the many ways available to retain and motivate quality staff in early years settings, from gaining professional status to enhancing personal professional development goals.
Keyboards can be sharper than swords
Authors: Bayram Liz
Published: May 2014

The media is always in search of a sensational story and its interpretations of childcare reports can often hit the moral of the workforce hard. Liz Bayram says practitioners must stick together at these times.
Early years pioneers: McMillan and Issacs
Authors: Martin Estelle
Published: May 2014

The second in this12-part series examining the pioneers and key influences of early years education through the ages examines the work, philosophy and influence of Margaret McMillan and Susan Isaacs.
Your obligation to ensure that Every Child Matters
Authors: Allingham Sue
Published: May 2014

Are you aware of your duties towards the children in your care, are you putting these principles into practice? Sue Allingham delivers a timely reminder about the obligations laid out in Every Child Matters.
Taking on the nettles
Authors: Langstaff Sophie
Published: May 2014

Sophie Langstaff discusses how one nursery involved its children in setting up an outdoor learning environment, including learning to recycle, assessing and taking risks, and exploring the natural world..
Thankfully, we have not sorted play
Authors: House Richard
Published: May 2014

Play has been placed back into the spotlight with the Early Years Foundation Stage, but are we negating its very nature by making it part of a framework with objectives and goals? Dr Richard House discusses.
For a few hours more
Authors: Argent Amanda
Published: May 2014

The UK is an expensive place to live and parents are increasingly making use of after-school clubs as part of their childcare provision. Schoolfriend etc takes this responsibility very seriously.
Heuristic play in the early years
Authors: Lambe Elaine
Published: May 2014

Children engage in many different types of play during each session. In this article, Elaine Lambe discusses how heuristic play combines children's innate curiosity with sensori-motor development.
A new year brings fresh challenges
Authors: Bayram Liz
Published: May 2014

2008 is going to be a year of change and challenge for childcare providers. However, the EYFS and changes to Ofsted inspections will serve to bring together the different strands of the workforce.
Special Treasures - Early Play
Authors: Dixon Peter
Published: May 2014

THE STORY SO FAR… (For those of you who missed, lent, lost December's eye) Ms Debbie Goodway, a student early years teacher at Special Treasures Primary School, has lost her big, fat, lesson plans file (BPF), not to be confused with the Tesco's BLT, which she ate, alone in her classroom, in order to delay her face-to-face meeting with Mrs Harpoon. She had been the headteacher at Topshot Primary for 10 years and she ran what Oafsted called a ‘tight ship’. Her 10 successive OUTSTANDING INSPECTION AWARDS had graced Topshot's entrance hall together with a big newspaper photo of Mrs Harpoon and all the children who came to school in uniform that day smiling and punching the air in ecstasy.
A crackling good time
Authors: Barber Jenny
Published: May 2014

Does the thought of holding regular cookery sessions fill you with fear, or joy? Jenny Barber explains why you should embrace the chance to enthuse the next generation of Delias, Nigellas and Jamies.
A master of your own destiny
Authors: Parkin Philip
Published: May 2014

The government is pressing ahead with its plans to make teaching in the UK a masters-level profession, but is this necessarily a good thing? Voice general secretary Philip Parkin raises a number of concerns.
Fairer funding for free entitlement
Authors: Tanuku Purnima
Published: May 2014

As local authorities start their roles as ‘market managers’, with responsibility for ensuring there is sufficient childcare, it is vital that nurseries are properly funded for delivering the free entitlement.
No level playing field at this rate
Authors: Tanuku Purnima
Published: May 2014

BUSINESS RATES have a real impact on the sustainability of day nurseries. NDNA has heard of 50 percent year-on-year increases in some areas. Combined with other increasing costs, many settings feel a real squeeze on financial margins every time there is a rise in rates.
No place for faddy diets
Authors: Tanuku Purnima
Published: May 2014

THERE HAS been much talk and media coverage recently about the Nippers Nutrition report by East Sussex council, which found that food analysed from the participating nurseries was ‘too healthy’, with an over-emphasis on fruit and vegetables, and low levels of healthy fats
Time to get out and get active
Authors: Bayram Liz
Published: May 2014

Outdoor play and learning feature heavily in the Early Years Foundation Stage and with the longer days upon us childminders are perfectly placed to get children outside and active, says Liz Bayram.
Dance to a writing tune
Authors: Cosh Jackie
Published: May 2014

Adapted from the popular Write Dance programme, children's charity Dazu has developed Dance Write, a version that encourages mark making skills that has had particular success with boys.
Linking with libraries
Authors: Hampshire Vivien
Published: May 2014

As the National Year of Reading enters its closing stages, there is no better time to encourage even the youngest child to explore all that the local library has to offer, as Vivien Hampshire explains.
Gender differences
Authors: Day Lin
Published: May 2014

Why do boys and girls generally conform to social stereotypes, even from a very young age? Are the reasons purely to do with how they are raised, or is there a biological basis for gender differences.
Learn to park and ride
Authors: Miller Ruth
Published: May 2014

'Going to the park' should be about so much more than just a visit to the swings. Although these do have their place, it is the great outdoors that offers childminders the perfect place to let children learn.
Care in mixed-age groups
Authors: Clare Ann
Published: May 2014

As a challenge to the traditional model of caring for children in chronological age groups, Dr Ann Clare explores the advantages and disadvantages of offering care in mixed-age groups within settings.
Boys will be super writers
Authors: Clarke Jenni
Published: May 2014

Rather than frowning upon superhero play, the competent practitioner will use it as an opportunity to engage young boys in many exciting early writing and mark making activities, as Jenni Clarke
One glittering advent
Authors: Hampshire Vivien
Published: May 2014

A traditional Advent calendar helps a child to count the days leading to Christmas, but creating and using a special calendar can herald any important event and offers a wealth of learning opportunities.
What is your qualifying status
Authors: Tanuku Purnima
Published: May 2014

Purnima Tanuku explores why it is vital that all practitioners and managers in England look at the CWDC Qualifications List and check that their qualifications are fit for the future of the workforce.
It is all about the filling
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

This month's pair of nursery rhymes can be used to explore all of the learning goals, with a particular emphasis on activities that will help to develop problem solving, reasoning and numeracy skills.
Why we do it this way
Authors: Hutchison Alison
Published: May 2014

Taking the time to reflect on your practice and having the courage to accept criticism and embrace change, in a sector that is constantly evolving, are the hallmarks of a dedicated early years practitioner.
Childhood in the dock
Authors: Bayley Ros
Published: May 2014

We have more policies and provision for children now than, possibly, at any other time in history, yet a recent independent report has painted a startlingly bleak picture of childhood in this country.
SPECIAL TREASURES
Authors: Dixon Peter
Published: May 2014

‘COR! WHAT a whiff,’ cried Mrs Footfinger, who as an early years teacher, was invariably last into the staff room. ‘Do you mind?’ laughed Mr Boric-Lindt, busily prodding one of his Cornish pasties, which had been revolving mysteriously inside the staff microwave.
Babies
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: May 2014

Most children will have a lasting fascination with babies, some because they have younger siblings or cousins, and some simply because it was not long ago that they themselves were that young.
The New Year
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: May 2014

The New Year is a celebration that transcends countries, cultures and religions, and offers children many opportunities to learn about new beginnings and fresh starts, as Ailsa Chapman explains.
When you wish upon a star
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

This month's star struck nursery rhymes can be used to inspire activities that will develop both creative and communication skills. Use these ideas to explore such topics as night and day, and space and light.
Extending the reach of quality
Authors: McNellan Anne
Published: May 2014

SCOTTISH CHILDMINDING Association (SCMA) has recently completed a series of projects in the north of Scotland aimed at improving the quality of childminding and at enabling childminders to build confident children. It is vital for childminders that they can access the training offered by projects, such as this, in order to continue to develop both personally and professionally.
Telling it like it really is
Authors: Bromley Helen
Published: May 2014

Reading should be a pleasurable activity that ties in with children's interests, which means that not all of the books in your setting need to be narrative stories, but should include many information texts.
Special Treasures
Authors: Dixon Peter
Published: May 2014

MRS JUGGERNAUT, the site manager, huffed as she dumped yet another pile of the headteacher’s missives on Ms Goodway’s new teacher’s table. She recalled that Ms Goodway had recently allowed the children to use it as a raft in their pirate game. Pirate faces and tatty flags still adorned its legs.
The summer
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: May 2014

What can be better on a long, hot summer day than getting outside and exploring the world around us? Both children and adults can enjoy getting out in the sun with these activities.
Just when does the best start in life begin?
Authors: Henty Neil
Published: May 2014

THE CHILDCARE workforce is committed to providing the very best start in life for every child, and when a practitioner starts their career in the early years they are undertaking a contract to assure that they will do everything in their power to uphold this essential and noble commitment.
Including apprentices
Authors: McConnachie Alexis
Published: May 2014

As advocated recently by Sir Alan Sugar, apprentices have been an integral part of the success of a nursery in Loughborough, becoming highly qualified staff who develop strong childcare careers.
Recession impacts on sector
Authors: Pritchard Tricia
Published: May 2014

A quarter of nursery places in children's centres are empty, subsidies for the centre's are coming to the end and privately-run nurseries are closing. Is this really a profession that will attract graduate leaders?
Handing out advice
Authors: Francis-Pester Dawn
Published: May 2014

Dawn Francis-Pester examines the challenges of left-handed learning and suggests ways to support and encourage left-handed children as they move through reception and towards formal schooling.
Movement and dance
Authors: Campbell Sharon
Published: May 2014

Practitioners are increasingly turning to dance sessions to promote exercise in their settings, however, as Sharon Campbell explains, they can also help children to express their feelings and thoughts.
Rooks in nooks read books
Authors: Bromley Helen
Published: May 2014

Young children learning to read are well supported by texts that rhyme because of the strongly tuned and repetitive rhythms of the words and matching illustrations. They are perfect for reading aloud.
Inspection focus announced
Authors: McNellan Anne
Published: May 2014

The Care Commission has announced that its Inspection Focus area for 2009-2010 will focus on the need for involving parents and carers in the development and learning needs of their children.
Special Treasures
Authors: Dixon Peter
Published: May 2014

‘WELL, I didn't do a lot,’ sighed Mr Boric-Lindt, deputy head of Special Treasures Primary School. ‘I spent my first two weeks mending the rotting window frames of my mother-in-law's bungalow on Canvey Island, and the next 10 days sorting out the schools' new computers.’
Ringing the justice bell
Authors: Davies Ruth
Published: May 2014

By using traditional stories from other countries and re-working them for a modern audience, we can help children to become more globally aware. Ruth Davies explores the Italian story, King John's Bell.
Strong foundations
Authors: Blezard Eileen
Published: May 2014

Eileen Blezard has set up her own childcare and management consultancy, runs a mobile crèche and continues to work directly with children. Here she describes her personal journey towards EYPS.
It is never safe to assume
Authors: Hattingh Lone
Published: May 2014

One of the benefits of gaining professional status is that candidates have the chance to experience novel thinking and training approaches that serve to strip away old and inappropriate assumptions.
Swine of the times
Authors: Day Lin
Published: May 2014

In every educational setting, both staff and parents will be faced with childhood illness, and knowing how to cope with and minimise the impact of these outbreaks, such as swine flu, is vitally important.
A modern-day Seuss
Authors: Pullinger Debbie
Published: May 2014

Described as a ‘Dr Seuss for the 21st century’, the Ragtag Rhymes series of stories offers a joyful blend of humour, rhyme and nonsense, making it an ideal springboard for a wide variety of practical activities.
Causing a real splash
Authors: Brunton Pat , Thornton Linda
Published: May 2014

Water holds a real fascination for children of all ages because its properties and abilities have almost magical qualities. This makes it an ideal resource for promoting creativity and critical thinking skills.
Explore your inner artist
Authors: Orlandi Kath
Published: May 2014

Early Years Professionals are well placed to support the creative and artistic development of young children and other colleagues, especially if they have explored their own understanding of creativity.
Chatterboxes everywhere
Authors: Lee Wendy
Published: May 2014

Over one million children in the UK are struggling with communication difficulties that may affect their learning, development and future life chances, which makes it imperative that we make a difference.
The drug of the nation
Authors: Day Lin
Published: May 2014

Opinion is divided about whether our youngest children should be allowed to watch television, and if so, for how long and what types of programmes. Unfortunately, most research is equally inconclusive.
Leading children's centres
Authors: Procter Sarah
Published: May 2014

This article is based on my own reflections and on conversations with colleagues who lead children's centres in West Yorkshire. All have graduated in the past four years through the NPQICL programme.
A world without limits
Authors: Wallace Helen
Published: May 2014

The rise of the Forest School movement is having an extremely beneficial effect on children's learning, but equally, practitioners can gain so much by undertaking training courses in outdoor provision.
Exploring creative and critical thinking through story
Authors: Bayley Ros , Regan Maureen
Published: May 2014

Providing open-ended story making opportunities for children will instigate a creative exchange with the potential to last for months at a time, while developing their creative and critical thinking skills.
Life with Little Red Hen
Authors: Leeper Marion
Published: May 2014

Traditional stories, from cultures all over the world, no matter how simple they at first seem, are full of moral dilemmas and complexities, that offer children opportunities for discussion and role-play.
Hello Paddington Bear
Authors: Sargent Marianne
Published: May 2014

Paddington by Michael Bond and RW Alley is one of the all-time classic books for children, which gives just as much pleasure today as it did 20 years ago. It also provides opportunities for story bag-based practical activities.
Count the cost of maths
Authors: Bennett Elaine
Published: May 2014

The economic climate has led many settings to look at ways of cutting costs and making savings. One such way is to involve parents in sourcing materials to help promote mathematical learning.
Gold standard provision
Authors: Wylie Deborah
Published: May 2014

Deborah Wylie gives details of the provision and best practice initiatives that led National Day Nurseries Association to recognise Little Angels in Cramlington, Northumberland, as Nursery of the Year 2009.
Provoking creativity
Authors: Brunton Pat , Thornton Linda
Published: May 2014

When children are given opportunities, using what the Reggio Emilia approach calls provocations, to openly express and discuss their ideas about the world they are capable of very powerful thinking.
Early educational life chances
Authors: House Richard
Published: May 2014

The latest research to draw on the Millennium Cohort study provides more support for a link between childhood deprivation and impaired cognitive development, but is the government really listening?
So much more than minders
Authors: Lee Maureen
Published: May 2014

The status and role of the home-based workforce needs to be challenged as more of these excellent childcarers gain professional status, arguably even making the very name childminder redundant.
Genes and inheritance
Authors: Day Lin
Published: May 2014

Who we are, how we are , how we look and what we do is largely governed by the genetic make-up we inherit from our parents and indirectly from our ancestors, but do other factors play an important role?
The forces are with you
Authors: Parker Jenna
Published: May 2014

Jenna Parker introduces a fascinating project on army life that started from children's interests, based on what mattered to them in their personal lives, which developed in to powerful child-initiated learning.
Try counting sheep
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

This pair of rhymes have sheep as their main protagonists, whether they are getting lost or simply following people about. The activities have an emphasis on communication, language and learning.
More than one coalition in town
Authors: Parkin Philip
Published: May 2014

The new education secretary has started outlining his plans for the Department for Education. It is vital that everyone in the sector listens to each other's views and works together in children's best interests.
Doubt over training programmes
Authors: Pritchard Tricia
Published: May 2014

With the Department for Education's announcement of £15 million of cuts to the Children's Workforce Development Council budget, Voice has already heard of scheduled training programmes being axed.
Enabling development
Authors: Jefferies Tina
Published: May 2014

Tina Jefferies continues our series on leadership in the childcare workforce by examining how to lead staff in developing their unique professional practice, benefiting the team, setting, career and child.
SPECIAL TREASURES
Authors: Dixon Peter
Published: May 2014

‘IT MIGHT seem funny to you,’ snapped Mrs Dunkirk, ‘but from the day young master Crain arrived in my nursery… with his hair all spiked up in horrid gel… I knew he meant trouble.’
Beyond the Mozart effect
Authors: Sinclair Fiona
Published: May 2014

An unexpected partnership between children's centres and a Lancashire Sinfonietta orchestra is using the music and inspiration of Mozart and Tchaikovsky to change children’ lives in Burnley, Lancashire
Psychology of colour
Authors: Day Lin
Published: May 2014

We all have a favourite colour and we all react in different ways to the shades and hues we see around us, but is there evidence to suggest that how we decorate our settings can have a real effect on learning?
Special Treasures
Authors: Dixon Peter
Published: May 2014

MRS HARPOON enjoyed taking the governors on the termly tour of her school, and the glass of sweet sherry followed by a drive to the King and Carpenter for an excellent lunch was a bonus. Today, however, was different. Ever since the retirement of Mrs Chumley after 15 years of governor service, and her replacement by Mrs Pratleigh-Didcotte, things had altered. It wasn't as if Mrs Pratleigh-Didcotte had actually done anything, said anything or altered anything. She smiled when appropriate, studied minutes of the last meetings diligently and spoke nicely to the children as she visited their classrooms. She was quiet and reserved. Or so it seemed.
Growing healthy food
Authors: Francis-Pester Dawn
Published: May 2014

Gardening has both mental and physical health benefi ts for children, most importantly, however, it encourages a healthy lifestyle and an interest in the natural world, while connecting food with its source.
It is time for stormy weather
Authors: Tanuku Purnima
Published: May 2014

With the warmish days of summer coming to an end, Purnima Tanuku explains why all nurseries need to ensure that they are prepared for any weather eventuality, after last winter's snow storms.
The last child in the woods
Authors: Knight Sara
Published: May 2014

Sarah Knight, caught up with Richard Louv, author of Last Child in the Woods and founder of the Children & Nature Network to discuss the overwhelming benefits of reconnecting our children to the natural world.
Thinking documents
Authors: Lawrence Penny
Published: May 2014

Sustained shared thinking is very important as an early years practice, but the role of documentationis often overlooked in the UK, especially as a means of first instigating and then sustaining the process.
Body art showing poor image
Authors: Tanuku Purnima
Published: May 2014

Purnima Tanuku examines how early years settings can balance the ever-growing popularity of tattoos and piercings with maintaining a professional and caring image and non-discriminatory dress policy.
How to talk about loss
Authors: Hampshire Vivien
Published: May 2014

Death is never easy to talk about, but offering comfort, support and a listening ear can make a big difference to a child's understanding, acceptance and recovery following the loss of a loved one.
Early movement skills
Authors: Jefferson-Buchanon Rachael
Published: May 2014

Fundamental Movement Skills is an Australian programme that underpins existing frameworks of learning with focused physical activities that nurture proficiency in the foundations of movement.
Review – How children learn: traditional and contemporary theories: Early Years 2010
Authors: Comenius Jan
Published: May 2014

In September, eye took its annual conference to the Park Crescent Conference Centre in central London. This year's event, in association with Practical Pre-School magazine, Practical Pre-School Books and Child Care magazine, focused on the contribution of pioneers, both past and present.
Meeting the needs of two-year-olds in outdoor play provision
Authors: White Jan
Published: May 2014

In our appreciation of the importance of our outdoor spaces we can be guilty of forgetting about the different needs of children of different ages. For example, two-year-olds will need specific provision.
Getting it all wrong
Authors: Leeper Marion
Published: May 2014

Nursery rhymes are an important part of a child's language journey, however, we should not get too precious about getting the words right, even the best poets enjoy creatively playing with convention.