bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Older travellers and the increased risk of malaria
Authors: Grieve Sandra
Published: May 2014

Owing to the world’s ageing population, the number of older travellers is increasing. Sandra Grieve examines whether age can be considered as a risk factor for the development of malaria
Support when you need it
Authors: Hooper Roz
Published: May 2014

Roz Hooper introduces a new series that will look at a number of examples of workplace issues faced by practice nurses and show how they gained the support needed to resolve them
Julie Reynolds: People are people
Authors: Reynolds Julie
Published: May 2014

Julie Reynolds has treated patients from a variety of cultural backgrounds. She discusses working with different populations
Differentiating abdominal pain using Murphy's sign
Authors: Thomas Susan
Published: May 2014

Murphy's sign is a sensitive test used to ascertain the cause of abdominal pain. Susan Thomas outlines the procedure of the test and what elicits a positive result
Syphilis: recognizing the ‘great pretender’
Authors: Mulryan Chris
Published: May 2014

Following a recent surge in the number of cases of syphilis, Chris Mulryan outlines why it is important that practice nurses are alert to the presentation of this condition
Applying the tools of a productive practice
Authors: Wilson Jennifer
Published: May 2014

Jennifer Wilson discusses the benefits of the Productive General Practice programme to practice nurses
Minimizing pain in wound management
Authors: Day Julie M
Published: May 2014

Julie M Day discusses how the assessment of wound related pain should be an integral component of wound assessment
Health coaching with long-term conditions
Authors: Newman Penny , Varnam Robert , McDowell Andrew
Published: May 2014

Penny Newman, Robert Varnam and Andrew McDowell discuss how health coaching can transform health care for people with long-term conditions
Looking again at VTE 1: assessment and diagnosis
Authors: Bacon Sue
Published: May 2014

Sue Bacon discusses the diagnosis and delivery of high quality care to patients with venous thromboembolism in the first article of a two-part series.
Choosing resources that reflect equality
Authors: Griffin Sue
Published: May 2014

When you are choosing resources, there are a number of factors to take into account to help support good practice in equal opportunities, anti-discrimination, inclusion and diversity. Sue Griffin helps you think through how to make these choices
Letters
Authors: Jacobs Rosalin
Published: May 2014

I have just read your article in the Practical Professional Child Care February issue, about My Job childminder – Jai Patel.
Understanding older children: Thinking skills
Authors: Lindon Jennie
Published: May 2014

If you look after school-aged children, whether after school or during school holidays, you may find it useful to have an insight into how you might expect them to develop and behave as they grow older, so that you feel able to meet their changing needs.
Words you need to know: Holistic development
Authors: Griffin Sue
Published: May 2014

We often think about children’s development by dividing it up in a variety of ways. Sue Griffin reminds us that we must always keep the whole child in view.
Cooking for vegetarian children
Authors: Franklin Liz
Published: May 2014

Nowadays more and more children are being brought up as vegetarians. Food writer Liz Franklin explains how to ensure children are getting the correct nutrients for a healthy diet.
Birds in winter
Authors: Elcome David
Published: May 2014

The best way of attracting birds close to a window is to set up a feeding corner nearby. A bird table provides an obvious focal point. It need not be expensive and elaborate, indeed, the simpler it is the easier it will be for the children to see the birds. Try to make sure it is placed near to safe cover - a bolt hole for birds to hide in if predators such as cats or sparrowhawks threaten.
Spring and growth
Authors: Day Helen
Published: May 2014

In our nursery we present spring-time as something to look forward to. It is a time when we say good-bye to winter and begin to enjoy outdoor life again.
From grids to graphs
Authors: Catterall Rona
Published: May 2014

First we need to look at three aspects of data handling:
What does the National Childcare Strategy mean for you?
Authors: McKenna Kate
Published: May 2014

In May 1998 the Government launched the National Childcare Strategy. The strategy is presented by the Government as being about supporting families and recognising that families need good quality childcare. The strategy also recognises that affordable childcare is important if parents are to be encouraged to return to work or to study. All of this will help with regeneration and prevention of social exclusion, which are always high on local and political agendas.
Are we forgetting how to help children learn?
Authors: Edgington Margaret
Published: May 2014

Qualified staff, who have received training in child development, know that:
Jack and the Beanstalk
Authors: Sparks Linfield Rachel
Published: May 2014

Go to the library or look on your bookshelf at home and find a book about Jack and the Beanstalk. Share the book with your child. Look carefully at the illustrations and as you read the story, predict what might happen next.
Teaching singing
Authors: Blanchard Chrys
Published: May 2014

Whilst there are probably few groups who rarely sing at all, and many groups who sing naturally and spontaneously throughout their days, a large number of groups will tend to save singing for the five- or tenminute slot just before home time. There are many ways in which we can bring singing into other parts of our day. Singing can be used to unite a group, to teach something, to give a signal, to focus on a topic, to congratulate or reward, to give thanks, to celebrate, to help you to achieve a task, to change a mood and, of course, to have fun!
Is your child left-handed?
Authors: Milsom Lauren
Published: May 2014

Not all children have decided on their hand preference by the time they start pre-school or nursery. However, you can watch for signs by looking out for:
The wonders of wood
Authors: Evans Jean
Published: May 2014

Look around the house for flat wooden surfaces, such as a table top, door frame or chopping board and look closely at the pattern of the grain of the wood. Can you see any knots? Put a piece of paper over the wood and rub it with a thick crayon. Can you still see the patterns in the rubbing you have made?
The Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000
Authors: Tatham Marcia
Published: May 2014

It was the Macpherson Report, published in 1999 as a result of the Stephen Lawrence Inquiry, which first highlighted the problem of institutionalised racism. It defined it as:
Working with parents of children with special needs
Authors: Fisher Sue
Published: May 2014

As SENCO, it is your responsibility to ensure that your intentions regarding working in partnership with parents are outlined in your setting's special educational needs policy and that this is reflected in practice throughout the setting.
Making plans for sports day
Authors: Heald Chris
Published: May 2014

Many children today don't get enough exercise to develop strong bones and healthy hearts and lungs, putting their future health as adults at risk. Our concern should be for children to enjoy physical activity within a supportive environment. There is plenty of time for competitiveness at a later age. Think about what you have done on previous sports days - whether all the children are always actively involved, or whether they spend a lot of time watching.
Working with other professionals
Authors: Fisher Sue
Published: May 2014

Through developing relationships with a range of professionals and organisations, you will be able to build links between families of children with special educational needs in your setting and those people who are able to offer them support. For many parents, this will be a difficult time and by helping in this way you will not only be ensuring the best support possible for the child, but also for the whole family.
Healthy eating: schemes and books
Authors: Spicer Beverley
Published: May 2014

Planning your own healthy eating week or project is always useful, but it's a good idea to have an idea of what is happening elsewhere in your local area and nationally. When your health event coincides with a national event there may be press coverage to support whatever you are trying to achieve, and this may improve the impact.
Working with parents as volunteers
Authors: Prince Jean
Published: May 2014

The Curriculum Guidance says that when parents and practitioners work together in early years settings, it has a positive impact on the child's development and learning. All settings have daily contact with parents but this doesn't mean that a supportive partnership will just happen. Developing a partnership with parents needs careful thought and planning to make sure that there are plenty of benefits and few pitfalls.
How to make weather boxes
Authors: Stevens Judith
Published: May 2014

The weather may be unpredictable but you know that at some time during the year it is likely to be wet, windy, sunny, icy or even snowy. Staff in many early years settings develop weather boxes to support children's learning. These clearly labelled boxes containing resources appropriate for different conditions are stored until needed.
Spring frieze: new life
Authors: Sparks Linfield Rachel
Published: May 2014

Ideally, before starting on the frieze, children will have had the opportunity to see some signs of spring. You might have been on a walk to see buds on trees and spring flowers. If this is not possible, pots of snowdrops, hyacinths, tulips and daffodils could be brought into the setting as each flower is due to appear on the frieze.
Mental health problems in young children
Authors: Hawley Tarryn
Published: May 2014

The Office for National Statistics 1999 survey of mental health problems in young people revealed that 10 per cent of five- to fifteen-year-olds are suffering from serious mental health disorders, interfering significantly with their ability to get on with their lives. The more we are able to do for children in the early years to build a secure foundation, the better equipped they will be to respond to difficulties and relationships in later life.
Exploring emotions: feeling jealous
Authors: Bayley Ros
Published: May 2014

Children as young as three and four are still developing their sense of self. They are affected by the things that happen to them and the ways in which adults respond to these experiences. When young children are feeling jealous, their sense of self, and their security, can be threatened, so it is crucial to think carefully about how you will help them with these strong feelings. They may not even be able to put a name to what they are feeling, and this may make the feelings even more distressing.
Making message boxes
Authors: Webster Wendy , Thornton Linda
Published: May 2014

Staff at Barford Pre-school in Warwickshire first heard about communication boxes when they visited an exhibition about the work of pre-schools and infant-toddler centres in Reggio Emilia.
Curved and straight lines
Authors: Catterall Rona
Published: May 2014

Planning for progression is difficult when it comes to shape but essential, otherwise children can keep on experiencing the same aspect of shape rather than developing and moving on.
Learning your lines
Authors: Catterall Rona
Published: May 2014

Fold this page so that you can only see one pattern at a time. Ask your child to look at the pattern and say if the lines are straight or curved. Help your child to trace over the dotted lines with their finger to follow the pattern. When you feel that they can follow the pattern give them a coloured pencil to draw over the dotted lines of the pattern. After this, some children may feel confident enough to copy the pattern on a separate piece of paper or to make up a pattern of their own. Remember to stress the curved and straight lines in each pattern.
Bottoms and tops
Authors: Catterall Rona
Published: May 2014

Find about eight containers such as a tin, a jar, a bottle (plastic not glass), a vase, a jug, a cup, a mug or a teapot. Try to have a variety of base shapes and sizes.
Look and learn
Authors: White Hilary
Published: May 2014

Sharing an information book with a child is different from reading them a story. With an information book, it is much easier to take time over each page because there is no story to interrupt. It doesn't matter if you don't finish the book because there is no proper ending.
When children play with guns
Authors: Rich Diane
Published: May 2014

I visited a friend this year with young twin boys aged seven. As I arrived they were engrossed in their new James Bond video, calling through to their mum, ‘He's got the bad man, Mum!’ ‘It's all right, he's got the gadget from Q, he'll get away!’ ‘Wow, pow!That was a good bit!’
Playground games
Authors: Horvath Martine
Published: May 2014

Ideally, the children should be able to play the games below on their own or with friends without support but they will need help in developing such ownership by being guided, played alongside and having adult direction to start with. As the children grow in confidence and familiarise themselves with the rules you should be able to observe from a distance as they learn to organise themselves increasingly without support.
The Islamic festival of Eid ul-Fitr
Authors: Howard Christine
Published: May 2014

Sacred books are important for all the major world faiths. They are the means by which the beliefs and faith of the religion are handed down from generation to generation.
Holidays
Authors: Williams Brenda
Published: May 2014

Talk to your child about the beginning sounds of other words around the home, such as ‘b’ for bed and ‘t’ for table. Or play games by making up rhyming sounds together, such as bed, red; book, look; house, mouse.
Games with number lines
Authors: Jarvis Karen , Jarvis Matthew
Published: May 2014

The best ideas are often the most simple. In our setting, one of the most popular games is a home-made one. You roll a dice and move a toy car along a race track according to the score on the dice. The track consists of four lanes of squares numbered from one to 15. In other words, it's a number line. But it allows children to apply a number of key mathematical skills in a meaningful and fun way.
Resources to support: Creative Development
Authors: Pearson Linzi
Published: May 2014

Playdough is a useful resource. Children can be creative with it and use it to make models, as well as it being an outlet for aggression and good for developing fine motor skills. You can buy it but the best sort is homemade. It is simple to make and there are lots of different recipes (see example below).
What makes a reflective practitioner?
Authors: Edgington Margaret
Published: May 2014

Do you talk regularly with your colleagues, highlighting what went well that day and what needs changing? Do you identify with the practitioner who said 'The more I learn the less I think I know'? Do you worry that what you do is not good enough? If you answered yes to these questions you are probably a reflective practitioner.
Why children need a sense of place
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

What is a place? Is it ‘Where I am now‘ or ‘Where I live’ or ‘Somewhere I go to‘? It could mean ‘my house’, ‘mum’s work’, the seaside, Birmingham, England or another country. For a young child to make sense of their world, it is crucial that they develop a sense of place from which to build a secure base to explore further afield.
Celebrating harvest
Authors: Howard Christine
Published: May 2014

Religions sometimes have what appear to be similar themes underlying a festival. However, it is important that we are clear in our own minds how these festivals differ, not only in their practice (which may be obvious) but also in the concepts which lie behind the practice.
Count the spots on the cakes
Authors: Jarvis Karen , Jarvis Mattew
Published: May 2014

A batch of home-made fairy cakes. A quantity of butter icing A die Cake decorations, for example silver balls, Smarties or glace cherries.
Using collections for counting and sorting
Authors: Stevens Judith
Published: May 2014

A well organised early years setting should include a clearly labelled maths workshop area in which children can find resources to support their independent learning. These will include a wide variety of collections for sorting, classifying, ordering and counting.
Encouraging creativity and independence
Authors: Huleatt Helen , Rimes Martin
Published: May 2014

Art is not separate from other areas of learning; rather, it stretches the mind and helps children learn to think. As they explore texture, shape, quantity and proportion, they are grasping concepts intrinsic to maths and literacy, and the fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination learned with artwork underpin future writing. Emotionally too, creative activity gives children confidence, joy and freedom – qualities that build self-esteem.
Making pancakes
Authors: Stobbs Nicola
Published: May 2014

Here is a recipe for pancakes. Laminate and refer to while cooking
Activities for green fingers
Authors: Hodgson Donna , Cox Anna
Published: May 2014

You don't need a huge garden or an allotment to garden with your child – you can begin by growing your first plants in jam jars, on cotton wool or in small pots. As the plants grow, they can be planted out into a flower bed or larger pots if you have the space.
Making a tissue paper sculpture
Authors: Whiteford Rhona
Published: May 2014

Tissue paper sculpting? No, not a delicate form of origami – more an adventure into glue and the changing state of matter. You know when a heavy liquid cake mixture changes with heat and time into a firm, yet spongy solid? Well the marriage of flimsy tissue paper with slimy PVA glue produces a surprisingly hard and shiny bright offspring.
Telling a story
Authors: Iannuzzelli Paul
Published: May 2014

To play this game, your child will need to a) find a friend; b) pick a place; c) tell a story.
Leadership, motivation and retention
Authors: Barber Jenny
Published: May 2014

Donald H McGannon said that leadership is action, not position. How true, an effective leader has to lead by example and be seen to be pro-active, it is not about sitting back relishing the position and authority. A good leader will never ask a member of staff to do something they aren’t prepared to do themselves have been seen to do on occasions.
Christmas in the setting
Authors: Cruickshank Sarah
Published: May 2014

Christians in the United Kingdom celebrate Christmas Day on December 25 every year. It celebrates the birth of the Son of God, Jesus. Over the years however, this celebration has become part of the secular (non-religious), life of the country. It is a time for families and friends to come together and celebrate another year passing, to exchange gifts, share food and reflect on what has past and what is to come.
Getting the most out of their chatter
Authors: Cooper Janet
Published: May 2014

All practitioners have a role to play in developing children’s communication skills. In a playgroup, toddler group or pre-school setting you have a unique opportunity to help children develop their full potential
Developing listening skills
Authors: Hislop Vicky
Published: May 2014

Early pioneers in child development such as Piaget and Vygotsky placed great emphasis on the acquisition of language and listening skills as a means to success. In the early years the main focus should be on:
Head lice! Controlling the little creatures
Authors: Brown Christine
Published: May 2014

Pre-school brings a wealth of new experiences for young children, but some of these can be less than pleasant, such as an introduction to head lice. Remember, with one in ten children having head lice at any one time it's nothing to be embarrassed or worried about.
Collecting leaves
Authors: Kennet Sue
Published: May 2014

This is an activity that allows each child to achieve and feel successful – they will all have the opportunity to take some leaves home and perhaps continue their exploration of leaves in the nursery (collage, rubbings with wax crayons, and so on).
News
Authors: Lepkowska Dorothy
Published: May 2014

Prolonged exposure to the television at a young age can have a profound effect on the development of children's speech, according to a new report.
One, two, three clap with me!
Authors: Croft Sue
Published: May 2014

For the following activities you will need to sing the song below, to the tune of Three Blind Mice.
Numbers in a row
Authors: Croft Sue
Published: May 2014

Your child has been learning all about 1, 2, 3. If you would like to build on this work, you could try the following activities at home. Do them in short sessions. Keep them fun. Remember to give lots of praise for effort. Please don't try to do all of them at one go, and do stop if your child (or you) has had enough
From the editor
Authors: Hindmarch Sonali
Published: May 2014

The lack of male role models in the nursery school is something weve discussed many times in the past. In fact, the number of men working in childcare, as a whole, is very low some figures suggest that for every 100 people working in the industry, only two are men.
Taking literacy outside
Authors: Harries Judith , Astill Mel
Published: May 2014

Children should be introduced to the different activities available in the outside area each week and encouraged to discuss and plan their preferences.
Have fun with drawing
Authors: Whiteford Rhona
Published: May 2014

Drawing is a bit like maths in that many adults feel almost proud of admitting they can't do it. But children in the early years are usually willing and eager to experiment without being selfconscious and critical.
From the editor
Authors: Hindmarch Sonali
Published: May 2014

Do boys naturally prefer to play with cars and swords? Or is this something that society encourages? I have always wondered.
Early messy play
Authors: Harries Judith , Astill Mel
Published: May 2014

Here is the final article in this series, packed with ideas for activities to explore and enhance creative development through handling all sorts of messy methods and materials. Young children usually enjoy any excuse to get messy and these activities foster this interest and allow them to respond creatively to what they see, hear, smell, touch and feel. They can use both familiar and more unusual materials to express and communicate ideas, thoughts and feelings.
Numero uno
Authors: Goodchild Rachel
Published: May 2014

When considering mathematics concepts for young learners it is hard to look beyond the use of numbers and counting. As with literacy, formal education in this area may be too advanced for some of the children you are working with. However, introducing numbers verbally and visually can help children to become familiar with numbers and prepare them for more formal education.
Early Years 2010
Authors: Henty Neil
Published: May 2014

On Thursday 23 and Friday 24 September, the Early Years 2010 Conference took place at the Park Crescent Conference Centre in London. Neil Henty reports on some of this year's key speakers.
Practical picture books, part 3
Authors: Davies Alison
Published: May 2014

Many picture books use shapes and patterns to measure and count, and there are lots of simple activities that you can do to help little ones make these connections, writes Alison Davies.
The sky's the limit
Authors: Astill Mel
Published: May 2014

Children love to build, demolish and re-assemble! Making building the starting point, this article suggests ways to harness children's natural curiosity for making structures and homes, using famous buildings, houses and habitats to develop their knowledge and understanding of the world around them, writes Mel Astill.
Happy Januarius!
Authors: Trundle Holly
Published: May 2014

The Roman Calendar calls January ‘Januarius’, after Janus, a God with two faces – one old, one young. Below, Holly Trundle uses the story of Red Riding Hood to explore old age and youth.
Goldilocks and the three bears
Authors: Hampshire Viv
Published: May 2014

Using a story book and simple props, this well-loved tale is a great starting point for conversation, thinking, counting and imaginative role-play, writes Viv Hampshire.
Zoe Sheaf
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: May 2014

Zoe Sheaf talks to Karen Hart about the rules, routines and rewards involved in nannying for four-year-old twins, Charlotte and Robert.
Use your resources!
Authors: Goodchild Rachel
Published: May 2014

Do not throw it out - use it again in a different way! Using recycled or found resources with children can give your creativity a new lease of life, while also exposing your children to the philosophy of recycling, and creating a sustainable environment. Rachel Goodchild tells us how.
Make time for a rhyme
Authors: Brayley Helen
Published: May 2014

Research shows that knowledge of nursery rhymes among parents and young children is declining, so are nursery rhymes still relevant, interesting or useful in the lives of early years children? Helen Brayley investigates.
Creative Easter crafts
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

Easter is around the corner, so now is the time to start preparing. In the following article, Judith Harries gives you traditional and innovative ideas for activities to enjoy with the children in your setting.
Clowning around
Authors: Parnell Sharon
Published: May 2014

April 1 is the date on which people celebrate April Fools Day; a nice excuse to ‘clown around’ in the name of tradition. Why not mark the occasion by doing some fun and humorous activities with your children? Sharon Parnell explains how.
The outside world
Authors: Parnell Sharon
Published: May 2014

Spring is here and summer is around the corner! Sharon Parnell tells us how to make the most of bringing the curriculum into the outdoor environment, so that you have the perfect excuse to go outside!
Five little ducks
Authors: Hampshire Viv
Published: May 2014

Ducks, and the quacking sounds they make, are familiar, fascinating and fun. Viv Hampshire describes some simple activities to help develop language skills, all based around the words of the popular song.
Prepare for May Day
Authors: Goodchild Rachel
Published: May 2014

Flowers, mini May poles, gardening and hobby horses…Rachel Goodchild tells you how to make the most of May Day with a range of inventive activities to encourage creative development.
Summer gardening
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

In the final article of the series, Judith Harries and Emily Price explore the theme of gardening; this time, during the summer months.
Reaping the rewards
Authors: Barber Jenny
Published: May 2014

The benefits of training are endless, writes Jenny Barber. In the following article she explains how a focused approach is essential when it comes to getting the most out of the course.
How to bring books to life
Authors: Doyle Phoebe
Published: May 2014

For some children, books hold little interest. Phoebe Doyle suggests ways in which practitioners can encourage children to view reading as enjoyable and fun.
The theory of loose parts
Authors: Sharpe Deborah
Published: May 2014

Loose parts provide children with limitless play opportunities. Deborah Sharpe tells us more about the theory of loose parts and shares suggestions for related activities.
Charlton Family Centre
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: May 2014

Charlton Family Centre in London recently received its second consecutive Ofsted ‘outstanding’ rating. Karen Hart finds out why.
Friedrich Froebel
Authors: Smart Julie
Published: May 2014

In the first of a new series in which Julie Smart profiles some of the great pioneers of early learning, she investigates the life and works of Friedrich Froebel, who founded the kindergarten movement.
Don't just recycle, rethink!
Authors: Hovarth Judit
Published: May 2014

As Easter is approaching, why not combine recycling with making some delightful Easter crafts that can be displayed around the setting or sent home to parents? Judit Hovarth tells you how.
The power of picture books
Authors: Hampshire Viv
Published: May 2014

Viv Hampshire considers how books can help children to develop their problem solving, reasoning and numeracy skills as she investigates the role of picture books within the Early Years Foundation Stage.
At the post office
Authors: Trundle Holly
Published: May 2014

Read on for a special delivery of post office-themed ideas, with a problem solving, reasoning and numeracy stamp, for you to distribute to your setting, writes Holly Trundle.
Animals of Asia
Authors: Taylor Anna
Published: May 2014

Why not create a cave in your setting, or explore China? The activity possibilities are endless as this month, Anna Taylor looks at the fascinating animals of Asia.
Location, location!
Authors: Astill Mel
Published: May 2014

Just going for a walk down the street or playing in the park can provide young ones with bountiful and varied learning opportunities, writes Mel Astill.
Creative cooking: Texture
Authors: White Hilary
Published: May 2014

This month, Hilary White suggests some recipes to stimulate thinking around texture, which will be delicious to eat, and fun to make, too!
Getting into the Olympic Movement
Authors: Jones Eileen
Published: May 2014

Introduce the children to an Olympic swimmer. Even Rebecca Adlington had to practise! She will inspire the children to improve their physical skills, writes Eileen Jones.
Teddy bear's picnic
Authors: Parnell Sharon
Published: May 2014

Creating a teddy bear's picnic is a fun activity for children, writes Sharon Parnell, so why not make use of its educational value too?
Animals of America
Authors: Taylor Anna
Published: May 2014

This fourth article in the series focuses on animals from The Americas and how you can use this topic to develop communication, language and literacy skills through fun, practical activities, writes Anna Taylor.
Are they too young to understand money?
Authors: Thornton Stephanie
Published: May 2014

How much can the pre-school child understand about money; should we be teaching them more on this topic? Stephanie Thornton investigates.
Creative cooking: Temperature
Authors: White Hilary
Published: May 2014

In her final article of the series, Hilary White suggests how to introduce the concept of temperature to your children, through a range of cooking activities.
Beside the seaside
Authors: Astill Mel
Published: May 2014

Mel Astill takes a look at coastal locations and explores practical ways in which to develop children's knowledge and understanding of this exciting environment.
Come to the circus!
Authors: Sharpe Deborah
Published: May 2014

A circus, with its sounds, smells, colourful sights, extraordinary skills and fun elements, is the perfect theme to inspire children's imagination, writes Deborah Sharpe.
In the garden
Authors: Trundle Holly
Published: May 2014

Holly Trundle suggests making most of the sunshine with your children while exploring the bountiful play potential of your garden.
Coming and going
Authors: Jones Eileen
Published: May 2014

July and August will bring thousands of visitors to the London 2012 Olympics. Let the children share in the country's excitement with these activities on the theme of ‘coming and going’, suggests Eileen Jones.
Festivals and folklore
Authors: Davies Alison
Published: May 2014

In the following article, Alison Davies explains how colour is used to represent life and joy in many festival celebrations, and suggests some related practical activities.
Festivals and folklore
Authors: Davies Alison
Published: May 2014

This month, Alison Davies suggests activities to encourage children to put themselves in others' shoes, using some lesser-known festivals as examples.
The two-year-old progress check in a group setting
Authors: Barber Jenny
Published: May 2014

This article explores the practicalities surrounding the newly introduced progress check, helping pratitioners to understand what it involves and how to work with parents so it is most effective.
As you like it: Following children's interests
Authors: Doyle Phobe
Published: May 2014

Finding out what children are interested in and igniting their imaginations is the only way to really fuel learning in the early years. Phoebe Doyle looks at ways to ensure children are engaged, by tuning into what they love.
What should our Olympic legacy be?
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: May 2014

Karen Hart questions the Government's commitment to providing all children with access to outdoor spaces, underlining how vital this is to all-round development.
Get all dressed up for Halloween!
Authors: Hampshire Viv
Published: May 2014

Viv Hampshire shares some ideas for creating simple costumes that reflect the history and traditions of Halloween.
How can childcare be made more affordable?
Authors: Tanuku Purnima
Published: May 2014

NDNA chief executive Purnima Tanuku guides you through some of the key issues around affordability and explains what NDNA would like to see done to help parents, while maintaining quality.
In and out of the hothouse…
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: May 2014

Are lots of extra-curricular activities and outings a good thing, or a sign of parental pressure? Karen Hart investigates.
The new-look SEF 2012
Authors: Pilcher Melanie
Published: May 2014

Melanie Pilcher provides an overview of what you need to know about Ofsted's new Self-evaluation form and explains how it ties in with inspections and the revised Early Years Foundation Stage.
Pausing for thought
Authors: Allen Wanda
Published: May 2014

Wanda Allen looks at why taking time to reflect is so important in terms of planning for learning, and explains why self-evaluation should be more about the journey than the end result.
Changing behaviour
Authors: Jones Eileen
Published: May 2014

In this article Eileen Jones suggests some activities that will help children to consider and adapt their behaviour to fit in with the needs and feelings of others.
Classic picture books
Authors: Harries Jude
Published: May 2014

In the second of two articles exploring ‘Room on the Broom’, Jude Harries considers how the book can be used to support the specific areas of learning and development, and provides some creative project ideas.
Whatever the weather
Authors: Holand Laura
Published: May 2014

Laura Hoyland explains why wild weather should be no barrier to exploring the great outdoors and provides some ideas for preparing activity boxes to help you get the most out of wind, rain, ice and snow.
Exploring new life
Authors: Clarke Jenni
Published: May 2014

Jenni Clarke describes how to introduce a young child to the wonders of spring, with tips for a carefully planned walk around your garden or local park.
RE online
Authors: Downs Carolyn
Published: May 2014

Carolyn Downs explains how to incorporate online resources on religion into your lessons using an interactive whiteboard
Making study leave work
Authors: Smith J
Published: May 2014

It is no surprise to most teachers that many students abuse pre-exam study leave, doing little or no revision. P Ainsworth and J Smith explain how to teach students to help themselves.
Music man
Authors: Stanley David
Published: May 2014

David Stanley explains how he revolutionised the music department at his school.
Who cares for the carers?
Authors: Roberts Caroline
Published: May 2014

Official figures show there are 175,000 children in the UK who care for a sick or disabled family member. But research shows this could just scratch the surface. Caroline Roberts explains
PE in the 21st century
Authors: Thornton Stephanie
Published: May 2014

There are changing perspectives on sports and gym in schools. Stephanie Thornton asks who benefits, how, and what's to come?
Focusing on support
Authors: Holley Graham
Published: May 2014

Graham Holley, chief executive of the Training and Development Agency for Schools, explores the changing role of support staff and the practical benefits of the National Occupational Standards
Bridging the skills gap
Authors: Anderton Rachael
Published: May 2014

With the skills debate rumbling on, Rachael Anderton from Young Enterprise says that the charity's Company Programme could be the answer
Why our schools should look East
Authors: Watson Graham
Published: May 2014

Last autumn, South West MEP Graham Watson piloted a scheme to bring Chinese teaching assistants from Taiwan to five secondary schools in the region. He explains how the scheme is now being expanding to more schools
Making your mark
Authors: Turner Kerry
Published: May 2014

The internet is essential to teachers' working lives, but how do you keep track of all the relevant information out there? Teacher Kerry Turner introduces the concept of social bookmarking
Gateway to success
Authors: Lewis Elise
Published: May 2014

A major part of the government's Young Gifted and Talented Programme is the City GATES initiative, which aims to crack the cycle of underachievement in urban areas. Elise Lewis explains
Health kick
Authors: Murdock Michael
Published: May 2014

Michael Murdock explains how managed learning environments can support and enhance school healthy eating programmes
Work in progress
Authors: Balls Ed
Published: May 2014

As schools warm up to deliver diplomas for the first time in September, Ed Balls reflects on the progress of the new qualification
Where to begin?
Authors: Thomas Alison
Published: May 2014

Alison Thomas visits Calthorpe School to find out how it makes the international dimension a possibility for its SEN students
Routes to leadership
Authors: Ainsworth Paul
Published: May 2014

Paul Ainsworth talks routes to senior leadership via CPD
A right to think
Authors: Phipps Sam
Published: May 2014

Sam Phipps reports on an innovative new board game that is sparking animated debate in the classroom on human rights and freedom of speech
Driving MfL take-up
Authors: Gent Emily
Published: May 2014

When languages become non-compulsory at GCSE, Ashlawn School, like many others, saw a drop in up-take. Concerned that students were not recognising the importance of learning a language, strategies were put in place to tackle this. Deputy headteacher Emil Gent explains.
MPs brand asbestos in UK schools a 'scandal'
Authors: White Daniel
Published: May 2014

A group of MPs has attacked the ongoing problem of asbestos in UK schools as a “national scandal” and urged the government to take action.
School exclusions and the SEN expert
Authors: Wilkins Richard
Published: May 2014

Independent SEN experts are playing an increasingly common role in exclusion processes. Legal expert Richard Wilkins explains more.
Supporting your students' mental health
Authors: Atkinson Mick
Published: May 2014

How can you develop a whole-school approach to supporting your students’ mental health and emotional wellbeing? Mick Atkinson offers some practical advice.
Learning Away: Excellence in residential trips
Authors: Carne Peter
Published: May 2014

The Learning Away scheme is helping schools to develop outstanding practice in education outside the classroom and residential trips. Peter Carne explains.
Wound healing and management of open wounds
Authors: Chivers Elaine
Published: May 2014

This article will look at recognizing the different stages of wound healing, the different types of open wounds and how they are classified. It will discuss principles of wound management, the lavage and debridement of wounds, and the nurse's role in these techniques. There will be discussion on the numerous types of wound dressings available, along with advancements in wound management.
How to manage infection control in the operating theatre
Authors: Packer Melissa , Devaney Jane
Published: May 2014

A common complication following surgery in all species is infection of the surgical site which leads to increased morbidity and in some cases mortality. Not only does the patient incur more stress, but it is also distressing for the owners and the cost of treatment is often increased significantly when dealing with surgical site infections (SSI). Prevention of SSI is by no means possible all of the time due to the many factors which contribute to development of SSI, however it is essential to try to limit development of SSI throughout the surgical procedures performed and during the perioperative period where possible. This article focuses on the preparation of the patient for surgery and infection control in the operating theatre, and highlights the important areas, such as hand hygiene, which can be improved to try to limit the spread of infection within the operating theatre.
Veterinary nursing in Norway
Authors: Torgersen Anne E.
Published: May 2014

Quality assurance of education abroad is the reason the inter-European collaboration on aspects such as curricula and examination systems is very important. It is also the reason why the Norwegian Veterinary Nurses programme strives for involvement in European projects that have a common aim in improving education of veterinary nurses across Europe.
Evidence-based practice in veterinary nursing
Authors: Banks Danielle
Published: May 2014

As professionals veterinary nurses should always seek to provide the best possible care to their patients. Evidence-based practice will allow to the nurse to make informed decisions and provide a better standard of care. This article provides an introduction to evidence-based practice. It discusses how to source and appraise evidence and implement and evaluate the changes.
Heatstroke in the veterinary patient
Authors: Tobin Laura
Published: May 2014

Heatstroke is a very serious life threatening emergency which can have an effect on all body systems in the small animal. When the body's pathophysiological mechanism, which is in place to protect it, fails secondary complications can occur and these will need prompt treatment. Heatstroke in the small animal needs to be recognized quickly and treatment initiated — most heatstroke patients will require intensive care nursing for a favourable outcome to be reached.
How to record and interpret an electrocardiogram
Authors: Pace Charlotte
Published: May 2014

Veterinary nurses are frequently required to record electrocardiograms (ECGs). Some arrhythmias need quick recognition and action, and so a nurse that can assist is incredibly valuable. This article will discuss how to record a good quality ECG trace and how to minimise artifact interference. It will also describe the ‘normal’ ECG appearance and show how to interpret the recording using six simple step-by-step questions. It will also highlight and explain some of the more common arrhythmias seen.
An introduction to cataracts
Authors: Hyde Barbara
Published: May 2014

Nursing ophthalmic patients can be delicate, difficult and very rewarding. The aim of this article is provide technicians and nurses with some background to the condition known as cataracts. Being equipped with the knowledge and understanding of what they are and why they occur will assist in the nursing of these patients.
Educating sustainable practitioners of veterinary nursing
Authors: Matthews Francesca
Published: May 2014

Sustainability is now a part of everyday life. The word is everywhere, but what does it mean and how can educators go about educating sustainable practitioners of veterinary nursing and of life. It is first important to understand what sustainability is, how everything is cyclical and how big an impact prople are really having and then look at how individuals and small groups of students can collectively make a big difference. Is plastic really worse than paper, how can people make good choices, what are the other factors that need to be considered? It is not just the environment that is affected, but economics, society and cultures too. Educators must walk to talk and actively show that sustainability is important and everyone can make a difference.
Canine syringomyelia: treatment and implications
Authors: Westwood Joanne
Published: May 2014

This article discusses the indications and diagnosis of canine syringomyelia, the treatment options and implications. It further addresses recommendations to reduce the prevelance of this debilitating hereditary disease often seen affecting toy breed dogs, in particular the Cavalier King Charles spaniel.
Feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Pace Charlotte
Published: May 2014

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is the most common cardiac disease in the cat. A recent study showed that in a cardiology referral centre, 46% of cats with heart disease showed no clinical signs of heart failure, which highlights how difficult it can be for veterinary nurses to recognize a cat with severe heart disease. Stress should be avoided at all costs because it acutely increases the body's metabolic demands, and patients with heart failure do not have sufficient cardiac reserve to accommodate such an increase in demand. Cats therefore should always be handled in a calm and competent manner. If a cat presents to the veterinary practice in respiratory distress, first line treatment should include oxygen therapy, diuresis and minimal handling.
Writing patient care reports: author guidelines for VNs part 2
Authors: Welsh Perdi , Orpet Hilary
Published: May 2014

This article is the second of the two-part series on writing patient care reports (PCRs). As previously discussed, published PCRs provide a valuable means for veterinary nurses to share clinical experiences with their colleagues while increasing their knowledge base and contributing to the establishment of evidence-based veterinary nursing practice. In this article, the authors aim to provide potential authors of PCRs with a set of practical guidelines and instruction on how to write detailed and succinct reports to a publishable standard.
Ticks and tick-borne diseases of pets in the UK: risks to travellers
Authors: Lloyd Sheelagh , Blunt Ruth
Published: May 2014

The ticks most commonly found on dogs and cats in the UK are Ixodes ricinus, Ixodes hexagonus and Ixodes canisuga with other Ixodes species rarely seen. Ixodes ricinus is known to transmit some diseases in the UK. Dermacentorreticulatus and Haemaphysalis punctata also are indigenous and found occasionally on pets in some areas. Rhipicephalus sanguineus has been identified after importation on pets from continental Europe and elsewhere, despite the requirements for treatment for ticks under the pet travel scheme. The increasing movement of pets between the UK and countries with a high incidence of tick-borne disease will require the use of strong parasite control programmes to prevent the spread and import of tick-borne disease. Tick-borne diseases of pets are briefly described.
Vetnnet and Acovene: improving the chance of working in Europe
Authors: de Man Annemarieke , Moene Alida
Published: May 2014

Several organizations within Europe are working on a continuous process of quality improvement of veterinary nurse training to make sure that veterinary nurses get a good education wherever they decide to study, but also to improve the possibilities of studying or working in other countries. This article covers the most important organizations and what they do: Vetnnet ( www.vetnnet.com ) and Acovene ( www.acovene.com ).
Exposure to cut flowers and spring flowering plants in cats and dogs in the UK
Authors: Bates Nicola
Published: May 2014

In the spring the Veterinary Poisons Information Service often receives enquiries about dogs, and occasionally cats, that have eaten spring flowers or bulbs in the garden or while out walking. In cats a common source of plant exposure involves cut flowers and bouquets. Most of the plants involved cause gastrointestinal effects. In most cases these signs are mild to moderate but occasionally some plants such as daffodils and particularly lilies can cause more significant toxicity requiring more active intervention. Some of the spring flowering plants can also cause allergic dermal reactions but these are usually not significant in cats and dogs.
Remembering the war horses that served in France
Authors: Sleight Laura
Published: May 2014

The new film War Horse, telling the story of the unbreakable bond between a boy and a horse sent to battle in the First World War, is taking the world by storm.