bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plaque psoriasis
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

Psoriasis is a common condition of the skin that affects 1–2% of the UK population (British Association of Dermatologists (BAD), 2006). The effect on those who have psoriasis can be profound, not only in symptoms, but also in the effect on their social lives, both at home and at work.
Strenghtening primary care research in Wales
Authors: Kenkre Joyce
Published: May 2014

Joyce Kenkre reports on the launch of the Wales School of Primary Care Research, which aims to increase research capacity and build the evidence base for primary care
Hepatitis C: Detecting the ‘silent disease’
Authors: Poll Ray
Published: May 2014

Hepatitis C often remains undiagnosed and may lead to premature death. Ray Poll explains what to look for and a Department of Health campaign
Time to get active for body and mind
Authors: Miles Lisa
Published: May 2014

Many of the benefits of physical activity are widely known, but few people are active enough in the UK. Lisa Miles describes some new evidence on the benefits of physical activity, and why health professionals should encourage patients to be more active
Measles returns
Authors: Fitzpatrick Michael
Published: May 2014

Measles is a highly infectious virus which has returned to threaten public health as a result of falling uptake of the MMR vaccine. Michael Fitzpatrick considers the implications of recent measles outbreaks in London
A leaner QOF compromised or more effective?
Authors: Vautrey Richard
Published: May 2014

Richard Vautrey sets out and explains the implications of the changes that have been made to the Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF) for 2008/2009
Emergency resuscitation in a general practice
Authors: Edwards Marilyn
Published: May 2014

The second article in this series discussed patient autonomy, confidenti-ality, communication and patient expectations (Edwa-rds, 2008a). This third article examines a significant event that involved issues relating to communication, delegation and training for the practice team. Resuscitating patients in general practice is very different from secondary care, and can be traumatic for the medical and nursing team, and the family. This paper will explore the implications of managing a resuscitation attempt in general practice.
Survey shows need for better access to training
Authors: Crossman Sue
Published: May 2014

Sue Crossman discusses the results of a recent survey of UK practice nurses which raises concerns about the availability of professional development support and the effects this could have on patient safety
Infection in eczema
Authors: Pearson IC
Published: May 2014

Colonization and infection of eczematous skin, usually with Staphylococcus aureus, seems to be integral to the disease process. The role of such pathogens is under intense investigation. The impaired skin barrier facilitates local colonization with Staph. aureus and the microbial flora potentiates the proinfl ammatory state. In clinical practice this means appropriate treatment with emollients and topical corticosteroids suppresses infl ammation, repairs the skin barrier and reduces staphylococcal colonization (Lin et al, 2007). In effect, a reduction in bacterial load can be achieved without antibiotic therapy.
Education through excellence: TREC conference 2008
Authors: Martin Jeannett
Published: May 2014

Travel-health Related Education and Care (TREC) has an excellent reputation for delivering quality training and education for travel health advisers. Jeannett Martin reports on TREC's first conference, held in March
Genital herpes simplex
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

An 18-year-old girl attended the surgery with complaints of frequency of micturition and dysuria for 24 hours. She was distressed, but not ill in herself, and gave no previous history of similar symptoms or urinary infections. Abdominal examination was normal, but on inspecting the perineum, a mass of discrete, coalescing ulcers was seen (Figure 1). A diagnosis of herpes simplex was made and a swab taken from the area for culture and identifi cation of the type of herpes virus involved. Treatment was prescribed, in the form of an analgesic and topical local anaesthetic, to ease the pain and a course of aciclovir to deal with the infection. She was also referred to the genitourinary clinic so that she could be fully checked for any other associated sexually transmitted infection.
Holistic management of osteoarthritis
Authors: M Oliver Susan
Published: May 2014

Osteoarthritis is one of the leading causes of pain and disability and affects approximately 8.5 million adults in the UK. Susan M Oliver explores the guidance for treatment of this crippling condition
Patient-centred care planning
Authors: Holdich Phil
Published: May 2014

Phil Holdich explains some strategies which can be used during annual reviews to help engage patients in taking responsibility for self-management of their diabetes. Series editor: Anne Phillips
Addressing psychology in erectile dysfunction
Authors: Peate Ian
Published: May 2014

Ian Peate outlines the physical and psychological factors that can cause erectile difficulties and the importance of history-taking in effective treatment and care
Addressing depression
Authors: Pilling Stephen
Published: May 2014

In chronic health problems such as type 2 diabetes, in particular where there is associated functional impairment, the incidence of depression is two to three times greater than in the non-physically ill population. This means that in diabetes up to 20-30% of people with the illness might also suffer from depression. This has important implications, including poorer outcomes in diabetes and increased risks associated with depression, for example, a risk of suicide greater than if a person had depression alone. The mechanism behind this pernicious interaction is not well understood but the presence of depression may significantly impair a patient's ability to both seek treatment for his/her physical health problem and to actively engage in any treatment plan, such as the management of diabetic leg ulcers.
Clinical Q & A
Authors: Carrier Judith
Published: May 2014

Are beta-agonists effective in the treatment of upper respiratory tract infection, especially bronchitis, in adults with no evidence of chronic respiratory disease?
Olivia Neely: Advancing research
Authors: Neely Olivia
Published: May 2014

Olivia Neely was a first-wave practice nurse who become involved in research to improve clinical practice
A voice for nurses
Authors: Rogers Gill
Published: May 2014

Londonwide Local Medical Committees (LMCs) first took the important step of inviting general practice nurses on to their committees in 2008 because we and GPs recognize the essential and valued role nurses provide to general practice. LMCs are not trade unions; they exist in the NHS statute and are the only elected and representative body of general practice.
Diets and behaviours to prevent child obesity
Authors: Shepherd Alison
Published: May 2014

Alison Shepherd explores the causes of childhood obesity, its associated health risks and suggests ways to help children change dietary and activity habits
Role of oat beta-glucan in lowering cholesterol
Authors: Jefferson Angie
Published: May 2014

Angie Jefferson reviews the role of oats and their constituent fibre beta-glucan in cholesterol reduction, and provides practical advice for supporting patients with dietary change
Sex tourism
Authors: Willcox Adrienne
Published: May 2014

Adrienne Willcox considers the sexual health risks many people take while travelling abroad and provides some suggestions for advising travellers
Managing foot complications
Authors: Bowness Dawn
Published: May 2014

Dawn Bowness explains how to help patients care for their feet to prevent perhaps the most feared complication of diabetes: losing a limb
Alopecia, part 1: Non-scarring forms
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

Our hair is said to be ‘our crowning glory’. Whether we like it or not, it is there for all to see. Good comments may make us feel good, adverse remarks may cause embarrassment and upset. Changes in hair growth and alopecia may be hard to hide and so there may be considerable distress at the onset of any obvious hair loss. Even a small patch of alopecia may lead to anxieties not only about the current loss but fears that the condition may extend and/or never recover.
Preconception care in diabetes
Authors: Hawthorne Gillian
Published: May 2014

Good glycaemic contol in the periconception period has been shown to reduce the risk of congenital malformation. Gillian Hawthorne explains best practice in providing counselling before pregnancy.
Achieving quality care in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Oliver Susan
Published: May 2014

Susan Oliver discusses how to improve long-term outcomes of patients with rheumatoid arthritis by identifying clear pathways of care and referral to specialist teams
Vaccinated abroad
Authors: Lang Sarah , Ford Karen
Published: May 2014

When people arrive in the UK from abroad to live, their immunization status may be unclear. Sarah Lang and Karen Ford consider the best approach
Seeking reassurance
Authors: Greenfield Gillian
Published: May 2014

On 24 September the Rt Hon Andrew Lansley CBE, Secretary of State for Health, wrote a reassuring letter to his ‵colleagues′ in the health service. Am I reassured by this letter? Far from it.
Male genitalia part 1: infections
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

Infections of the male genitalia are common, but may present with a variety of different symptoms and findings. Each of the problems may or may not have signs that are typical of a specific disease, and some may require microscopic and/or laboratory investigations to identify the cause and indicate the appropriate treatment. Each condition may also raise specific concerns, not only about the immediate problem but also about possible long-term implications.
Achieving change in the Cheviots
Authors: Benison Liam
Published: May 2014

Liam Benison met members of the North Northumberland Practice Nurse Forum in October. They spoke to him about improving practice south of the Scottish border
Transforming lives
Authors: Martin Jeannett
Published: May 2014

You may have seen the recent adverts on television about people who are in need of an organ transplant. I have been gripped by them. The huge impact on a person's quality of life while waiting for an organ is crystal clear. When I looked at the young person in the advert, I knew how helpless and desperate I would feel if that was my child.
Strategies for reducing exacerbations of COPD
Authors: Hickey Steven
Published: May 2014

Steven Hickey outlines the role of patient education and personalized management plans in preventing and reducing the frequency of exacerbations of COPD
Managing diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Robins Victoria
Published: May 2014

Increasing prevalence of diabetes means that diabetic nephropathy is becoming more common. Victoria Robins outlines how early detection and monitoring can slow the progression to end-stage renal failure
Considering the options for treating constipation
Authors: Kyle Gaye
Published: May 2014

Gaye Kyle reviews the appropriate use of pharmacological interventions for the management of constipation and considers some alternatives
Choice and change
Authors: Martin Jeannett
Published: May 2014

New arrangements for registering at practices will be in place from April 2011. One of the things being considered is more defined circumstances for a practice to refuse new patients. Another is removing catchment areas so that people can register at any practice anywhere.
The cost of treating minor ailments
Authors: Richards Sara
Published: May 2014

Sara Richards argues that the cost of treating minor ailments could be reduced by encouraging patients to take greater responsibility for their own self-care
Coventry diabetes education group
Authors: Bostock-Cox Beverley
Published: May 2014

Beverley Bostock-Cox explains the concept behind a multi-professional education group chaired by Roger Gadsby (right)
Assessment of work-related asthma
Authors: Romano-Woodward Diane
Published: May 2014

Diane Romano-Woodward provides an update on revised guidance on the diagnosis and management of asthma caused by exposure to allergens at work
A qualitative study of practice nurses‘ prescribing experiences
Authors: Daughtry Julie , Hayter Mark
Published: May 2014

Aim: To explore the experiences of practice nurses working in general practice when becoming non-medical prescribers. Method: A qualitative approach was adopted. Eight semi-structured interviews with prescribing practice nurses were undertaken. Data was analysed using Colaizzi's qualitative framework to develop themes representing participants′ experiences of prescribing. Results: Five themes were identified: ′expectations of others′, ′transforming roles′, ′feelings of responsibility′, ′positive impact of prescribing′ and ′negative impact of prescribing′. Conclusions: This study found that practice nurses′ experiences as prescribers were primarily positive, and that practice nurses have a role to play in the prescribing of medicines. However, nurse prescribing also generated some tensions in the doctor-nurse working relationship.
Evaluation of a primary care pre-registration programme in London
Authors: Chowthi-Williams Annette , Woolmer Jean , Harris Debbie , Curzio Joan
Published: May 2014

The majority of pre-registration nurse students undertake placements in secondary care, ill-preparing them for an NHS in which primary care is taking an increasingly important role. To overcome this discrepancy a primary care pathway was developed by London Sothbank University to provide those interested in entering primary care nursing to gain experience of working in primary care. Aim: To make a formal evaluation of students′ perceptions of the PCP programme. Method: All students were invited to evaluate the course and 20 responded. Focus group and one-to-one discussions were used. Findings: Students′ impression of the course was overwhelmingly positive. Support from course tutors and the learning experience in primary care were regarded highly. The availability of mentorship and opportunities to practise skills varied by each PCT. Skills attainment and lack of mentor support were sources of anxiety for students. Conclusions: Students and mentors had a positive regard for the programme and indications are that the students are fit for primary care practice.
Reviewing the concept of advanced nurse practice
Authors: Paniagua Hilary
Published: May 2014

Hilary Paniagua outlines the concept of advanced nurse practice and how the advanced nurse practitioner's role differs from other types of nursing
Back to the future in Eastbourne
Authors: Greenfield Jenny
Published: May 2014

The 27th RCN Practice Nurses’ Association (PNA) Annual Conference and Exhibition was held in Eastbourne at the end of June 2010. It delivered a packed agenda to a lively audience of practice nurses from the UK and across the world. As chair of the conference organizing committee, I could not believe that 6�years after putting in a bid to hold the annual PNA conference, the time had finally arrived. The committee had spent the last year planning: arranging speakers, venue, evening entertainment, and much more.
Dementia: work to do
Authors: Stephens Barbara
Published: May 2014

Eighteen months on from the publication of the first National Dementia Strategy for England, Living Well with Dementia (Department of Health, 2009), it would be a fair to ask what has changed in dementia care?
Fiona's blog
Authors: Peniston-Bird Fiona
Published: May 2014

So, you are ready to investigate undertaking the prescribing training ... where do you start?
The future of practice nurse education
Authors: Greenfield Gillian
Published: May 2014

Suzie Lovett-Clements wrote a comprehensive and scholarly article in the August 2010 edition of Practice Nursing about the challenging future for practice nurses in the post-White Paper era (Lovett-Clements, 2010). Her research details the alarming ageing trend in nursing as a whole and practice nursing in particular. About 46% of practice nurses are over the age of 50 and the average age is 48
Advanced nurse practitioners and GPs: what is the difference?
Authors: Paniagua Hilary
Published: May 2014

In primary care, a crossover of role boundaries between GPs and advanced nurse practitioners (ANPs) has led to a lack of role definition. This article analyses the findings from a study that attempted to define the distinctiveness of the ANP and GP roles. Two ANPs and two GPs from a training practice took part in the study. Consultations were recorded, transcribed and analysed using a qualitative methodology. Patient conversations were divided into six phases of the consultation: opening; history-taking; physical examination; diagnosis; management; and closing. Practitioner–patient interactions and behaviour were examined in each of the phases. Two typical extracts are highlighted: one between a GP and patient, and the other between an ANP and patient. ANPs interwove expert nursing skills throughout each interview, making their nursing identity clearly visible to patients. This study identified that GPs work in a different style to that of nurses, with ANPs working to diminish social distance from patients rather than creating it; this positions ANPs more in line with nursing than with medicine.
Lice and mites: tackling an intimate relationship
Authors: Greener Mark
Published: May 2014

Mark Greener discusses the epidemiology of lice and mite infestations, and how best to treat them
An investigation into practice nurses’ need for further education in musculoskeletal care
Authors: J Fletcher Monica , Oliver Susan , Cook Alain , A Albrow Helen
Published: May 2014

Background The prevalence of musculoskeletal conditions is 17% and is set to rise with the ageing population. A number of studies suggest the positive impact of nurse education and training on primary health care delivery in long-term conditions. Rationale There is little evidence of the management of musculoskeletal conditions by practice nurses and their training needs. The aim of this study was to measure practice nurses’ confidence, knowledge and ability to manage musculoskeletal conditions, and therefore to indicate the training need. Methodology At Education for Health 182 responses were gained from students and alumni. The data were collected via SurveyMonkey email survey during January to early February 2011 (n=150) and face-to-face surveys (n=32) during February and March 2011. Results Confidence, knowledge and ability to manage musculoskeletal conditions was low among practice nurses. The majority said they were not at all or only slightly confident (n=120/180, 67%) in providing treatment advice for patients presenting with these conditions. Most respondents had received informal in-house training or had observed general practice consultations. About 98% of respondents to the question (n=153/157) expressed an interest in further education and training, including online learning options (94%, n=147/156). Conclusions This study provides initial findings about the involvement that practice nurses have in the management of musculoskeletal conditions. Further education and training for practice nurses to develop competence, confidence and knowledge levels has the potential to improve the quality of life of the people living with these conditions.
Managing blood pressure and lipids in diabetes in primary care
Authors: Inglis Andrew , Phillips Anne
Published: May 2014

Andrew Inglis discusses the management of blood pressure, lipids and lifestyle for type 2 diabetes and reviews treatment aims for people with type 1 diabetes. Successful drug management is outlined through a case study
Assessing glycaemic control with self-monitoring of blood glucose
Authors: Meetoo Danny D , McAllister Gillian , West Adele
Published: May 2014

There is an increased prevalence of diabetes worldwide. Danny Meetoo, Gillian McAllister and Adele West identify the importance of self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) when encouraging people to manage their diabetes
Kernig’s sign, Brudzinski’s sign and the glass test
Authors: Thomas Susan
Published: May 2014

The recognition and management of meningitis is critical to promptly treat this life-threatening illness. Susan Thomas outlines two signs and the glass test, which can help to identify meningococcal disease
Causes of primary and secondary amenorrhoea
Authors: Fothergill Diana
Published: May 2014

There are many reasons to explain the absence of periods. Diana Fothergill identifies the causes of amenorrhoea and the treatment options available
Man up: Engaging men in primary care
Authors: Galdas Paul M
Published: May 2014

Paul Galdas looks at how practice nurses can improve men's uptake of primary health services
The role of practice nurses in the delivery of insulin pump therapy
Authors: Morrison Gillian , Weston Philip
Published: May 2014

Gillian Morrison and Philip Weston describe how the use of insulin pump therapy can allow selected individuals to achieve target glycaemic control and stability, while allowing them to maximize lifestyle flexibility
London Deanery launches a placement project for nurses
Authors: Smith Tricia
Published: May 2014

The London Deanery has collaborated with Londonwide Local Medical Committees and Plymouth University to develop the Practice Nurse Placement Project for nurses considering a change in career
Bronchiolitis: treatment in the community
Authors: Conquest Ruth , Cremonesini Louise , Neill Sarah
Published: May 2014

Ruth Conquest, Louise Cremonesini and Sarah Neill describe the aetiology, incidence and treatment of bronchiolitis, looking at community diagnosis and management to provide a greater understanding of the condition
Case-finding to identify undiagnosed dementia
Authors: McIntyre Rachael , Gupta Mina , Malhi Sham
Published: May 2014

Rachael McIntyre, Mina Gupta and Sham Malhi provide an overview of a dementia case-finding project in Sandwell and west Birmingham, which has identified previously undiagnosed dementia patients
Sleep: addressing the concerns of new parents
Authors: Woollaston Kate
Published: May 2014

Kate Woollaston looks at infant sleep problems and addresses some common concerns that parents have to enable practice nurses to support parents through this process
Kellie Johnson: Invest in CPD
Authors: Johnson Kellie
Published: May 2014

Kellie Johnson highlights the link between supporting professional development and increasing job satisfaction for practice nurses in the UK
Ensuring continuity in care of Marjolin's ulcer
Authors: Carbone Aletta , Skillman Joanna
Published: May 2014

Aletta Carbone and Joanna Skillman discuss a rare case of Marjolin's ulcer and the importance of bridging the gap between primary and secondary care in the management of non-resolving ulcers
Empathic nursing: going the extra mile
Authors: Davies Nicola
Published: May 2014

Nicola Davies outlines the benefits of adopting an empathic approach to improve patient communication and treatment outcomes in practice
Arrested development: reviewing early life events
Authors: Bush Andrew
Published: May 2014

Andrew Bush provides an overview of the factors that can hinder lung growth and considers the effects of early life events in the pathophysiology of adult disease
Diabetes and driving: managing severe hypoglycaemia
Authors: MacArthur Clare
Published: May 2014

The law stipulates that drivers must inform the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency if they develop a notifiable medical condition. Clare MacArthur explains what a notifiable condition is and the role practice nurses play in educating patients
Conscientious objection: a hundred years on
Authors: Winter George
Published: May 2014

During the First World War, the 1916 Conscription Act allowed individuals to claim exemption from military service. George Winter contends with the issue of conscientious objection, and its influence on medical and nursing ethics
Making friends
Authors: Lindon Jennie
Published: May 2014

We all want children to be popular and make friends - but do very young children need to, or know how to? Jennie Lindon explains how children develop the social skills needed for friendship and what you can do to help
Crafty Christmas makes
Authors: Warner Maureen
Published: May 2014

December means Christmas and all the celebrations that go with it. Children will be eager to help in the preparations. As well as involving them in kneading pastry and wrapping gifts, help them feel part of the planning by making some decorations together
Sensory play with scented flowers
Authors: Jackson Caroline , Miller Collette
Published: May 2014

Think of a flower and your senses take over - you imagine its smell, its texture, its colour and beauty. It’s the same experience for children, say Caroline Jackson and Collette Miller
Writing an individual care plan
Authors: Fisher Sue
Published: May 2014

A care plan is a document that identifies an individual child’s needs along with details of how these needs can be met. Sue Fisher explains
Working with parents: Providing information and establishing trust
Authors: Walker Miranda
Published: May 2014

This is the first in a three-part guide to working with parents and carers. We start by looking at the information that you should give them, and how to establish trust
The Childcare Act 2006: a guide
Authors: Griffin Sue
Published: May 2014

When the Childcare Act 2006 became law in July this year, the Minister for Children, Beverley Hughes, called it ‘an historic and radical piece of legislation – the first solely dedicated to early years and childcare – that redraws the boundaries of the welfare state’. Sue Griffin explains the key elements of this important new law
It’s all about me!
Authors: Todd Beverley
Published: May 2014

Take children on a voyage of self-discovery with a selection of projects that really are all about them. All the activities can be added to in later sessions for easy future planning
Caring for vegetarian children
Authors: Wolman Julia
Published: May 2014

A child may be raised vegetarian for religious, ethical, health or environmental reasons, or simply the parent’s personal taste preferences. With the correct information and planning a vegetarian diet can be perfectly balanced and healthy
Reading together
Authors: Whiteford Rhona
Published: May 2014

There are so many good reasons to read with young children but for Rhona Whiteford it’s about encouraging a lifelong love of books
Football crazy: ball games for all ages
Authors: Donbavand Tommy
Published: May 2014

Love it or loathe it, the World Cup is here, and you won’t be able to escape! But, whether you’re a football fan or a soccer sour-puss, the tournament is a great opportunity to involve children in ball games, says Tommy Donbavand. Try these action-packed activities for size
Using scissors
Authors: Taylor Pam
Published: May 2014

Using scissors provides opportunities for developing fine motor skills, manipulative skills, improving hand-eye co-ordination and developing logical thinking. Any child who can use scissors competently by the time they arrive in reception class will be at an advantage not only within the art/craft/technology areas of the curriculum, but will probably have better pencil control than a child who has not had experience of this activity.
Make a disposable drum!
Authors: Blanchard Chrys
Published: May 2014

This simple cardboard box drum is easy to make.
The value of number
Authors: Burton Ann
Published: May 2014

Do you see mathematics as a hard subject to teach? It should not be — topics such as number arise naturally in all that you do.
Feely games
Authors: Button Lesley
Published: May 2014

Developing a child's sense of touch and feel helps with their understanding of the world around us. We often tell children ‘Don't touch!’ if something may be hot or easily broken. Yet we want our children to explore their senses and realise that touching and feeling can pass on information as well as sight and hearing.
Using your local library
Authors: Denham Debbie
Published: May 2014

The image of a gloomy old library with a librarian telling children to be quiet is, thankfully, a thing of the past. Today's libraries are lively, welcoming places with a vast number of resources to help your child develop their reading and learning skills.
What is sorting?
Authors: Compton Naomi
Published: May 2014

We all use the skills and concepts of sorting every day without realising that sorting is what we are doing. We sort out crockery into plates, cups, bowls, we sort our clothes and, if they're really organised, some people even sort their CDs or tapes! All this sorting is to make our lives easier to manage and means that we can make better use of the time available.
Exploring colour
Authors: Button Lesley
Published: May 2014

The range of understanding within the pre-school age group is enormous. I wonder how many of us have said ‘I’m beginning to think this child is colour blind!’ For those children who are having difficulty with colour recognition it is important to focus upon one colour at a time.
Knowledge and understanding of the world
Authors: Wilkinson Gay
Published: May 2014

Science for young children is all about first hand experience - exploring, investigating and experimenting in order to make sense of the world around them; it is about making comparisons, trying out and testing ideas and considering the nature of what can be seen or what has happened as a result of their actions.
Freezing and melting
Authors: Wilson Gay , Creary Carole
Published: May 2014

These activities, which focus on how substances behave in various conditions, are in fact an early, fun start to chemistry! But what is happening scientifically?
What do we mean by science in the early years?
Authors: Creary Carole , Wilson Gay
Published: May 2014

Science is all about finding out about the world and our place in it. It's about using our senses to explore new situations and experiences, discovering how things work or relate to each other, asking questions and developing ideas. This is science, whether you are three or 103!
Teaching right from wrong
Authors: Hislop Vicky
Published: May 2014

Children come to your setting from different cultures, traditions and religions and bring with them differing moral values. What is right for one may be wrong for another and it is important that we recognise this when developing moral codes.
Action songs
Authors: Blanchard Chrys
Published: May 2014

Action songs draw us together from our earliest days right through to our final fling down the old folks home. Remember the Birdie song and that holiday in Spain? You'll find them at weddings, social events and parties all over the country. Even father-in-law, who hates singing, can be seen absent-mindedly jerking his elbow and nodding his head along with the rest.
A-Z of child health
Authors: Shabde Dr Neela
Published: May 2014

A febrile convulsion is a fit or seizure associated with high temperature, usually over 39°C (102°F). The fever is usually a sign that there is an infection, viral or bacterial, in the body. It also results because of the rapid rise in body temperature.
Writing an IEP
Authors: Jones Caroline
Published: May 2014

An Individual Education Plan (IEP) is a planning document for a child at Stage 2 or above of the Code of Practice. It is a working document to meet the needs of the child. It identifies and targets areas for action relating to the child's immediate learning needs and any arrangements which may need to be made to help the child make satisfactory progress. It also describes arrangements made to monitor and review progress and identifies any resources required.
Finding out about forces
Authors: Creary Carole , Wilson Gay
Published: May 2014

Forces play a huge part in our lives. We can't see them but we can certainly see their effects and we would definitely know if they weren't there! Walking relies on the friction between our feet and the ground. Without gravity we would float off into space. We wouldn't be able to make footprints in the snow!
The ladybird's spots
Authors: Catterall Rona
Published: May 2014

Lana was a very smart ladybird. She had a shiny black head and a bright red body. She was particularly proud of her seven black spots. She turned her head to count them as she did every morning. Imagine her surprise when she saw all her spots had gone. ‘Where are my seven black spots?’ she cried.
Making the most of natural materials
Authors: Austin Keeva
Published: May 2014

Natural or living materials can be used for a variety of activities and are a rich resource for developing many of the areas of learning.
Decorating for Diwali
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

You will need: air-hardening clay, small candles or nightlights, clay tools.
First stages of writing
Authors: Hedley Sue
Published: May 2014

We often tend to think about writing in the way we remember it from our school days. For example it's about spelling, punctuation and tidiness!! Recently a lot of research has been done which shows how children develop their own writing in a very personal way.
Using quoits in pre-school PE
Authors: Wright Kate
Published: May 2014

When I produce the rubber quoits at my pre-school gym classes many of the parents remark that they remind them of their own primary school PE lessons. The smell, the colours and texture haven't changed and yet when we try to recall what we used them for, we can't remember! Here are some ideas that hopefully will generate enthusiasm in both adults and children and bring those quoits back to life again!
The value of storytelling
Authors: Cannon Emily , Cameron Kathini
Published: May 2014

In the past, storytelling played a central role in both families and communities. It was part of an oral culture where adults had the opportunity to educate the younger members of the community by telling stories and sharing their wisdom. It was usually a way of conveying a message about tradition, identity, morality and highlighting virtues such as justice, love, truthfulness, forgiveness, courtesy and compassion.
Making music
Authors: Hunter Anne
Published: May 2014

You don't have to be a professional dancer to enjoy a good boogie! Sing action songs together like ‘Heads, shoulders, knees and toes’.
The language of time
Authors: Garrad Barbara
Published: May 2014

When young children ask ‘Is it time for my programme?’ they do not mean ‘Is it 3.15?’ but rather, ‘Is it the time in my day when I watch TV?’
Rhyming pairs
Authors: Sparks Linfield Rachel , Mead Rosemary
Published: May 2014

Use the pictures below to play rhyming games. As children sort the cards according to their rhymes, they will begin to develop a sense of rhyme. The cards can also be used to improve your child's visual memory
The concept of length
Authors: Garrad Barbara
Published: May 2014

At nursery school age, children are usually able to compare the length of two or three objects, placed side by side. They can decide which is shorter or longer than the other. They do not, however, realise that the comparison requires the objects to be aligned. If one is pushed forward of the others, they will decide that that is the longest, whether true or not.
Promoting healthy living
Authors: Evans Jean
Published: May 2014

Children learn by experience and, until they have had toothache, a sore throat or suffered the irritation of a rash, they will be unaware of the type of discomfort they will be likely to suffer. How can you help children to become familiar with these bodily changes or prepare them beforehand so that they can tell an adult about how they are feeling?
Counting with a favourite character
Authors: Lyell Dawn , Goulson John
Published: May 2014

To count, children need to be able to say numbers in sequence and to understand that there is one number for each item counted (one to one correspondence). The following activity creates opportunities for children to use number language, to count to ten, to join in reciting number names in order, and uses rhyme to develop an understanding of number.
Using works of art
Authors: Irving Dianne
Published: May 2014

Art plays a part in everyone's life - creative images are all around us in books, on television, on advertising oardings and in magazines. We are sometimes attracted to the images we see and sometimes they provoke moods or feelings in us that at first we don't really understand. It is important, therefore, that we equip children with the tools and thought processes that they need in order to analyse these images for themselves.
Attachment theory: what it means in practice
Authors: Elfer Peter
Published: May 2014

Evidence of the reality of attachments is all around us: the two-year-old playing in the park, venturing playfully further and further away from his watchful father but running back as soon as he feels alarmed by a large dog, other children or some other perceived threat; the three-year-old arriving at nursery, clinging to his mother with all his might. Even in adulthood, tearful goodbyes on railway stations or at airports speak of the pain that can be involved in partings. The most stable and mature of adults speak of the lurch in the stomach that betrays the feelings of anxiety at finding themselves facing a new situation or being separated from loved ones.
What's in a name?
Authors: Graham Jo
Published: May 2014

Take children to your nearest town or row of shops and look at what shops there are. Look with them at the names of the shops. (Some may be jokes, like ‘A cut above’ or some might be people's names.)
Weighing activities
Authors: Garrad Barbara
Published: May 2014

Playing on a see-saw is a good way to develop your child's understanding of weight.
Experiments with wax, fabric and dye
Authors: Stocks Sara
Published: May 2014

Batik is a traditional craft, often associated with Indonesia. Melted wax and dye combine in often intricate designs to make both ceremonial and special fabrics and everyday clothes. This activity introduces many new ideas and is well worth introducing slowly and carefully with frequent repetition of the new words.
Employment law and disciplinary procedures
Authors: Rolls Gillian
Published: May 2014

A stable, secure early years setting depends on the performance, conduct and morale of the staff. To achieve this and have good, strong, fair management, you need to have rules and procedures in place to deal with any performance or conduct issues that arise.
Building a wormery
Authors: Coulter Jacqueline
Published: May 2014

You will be amazed at the learning that can come from building your own wormery. You will find yourself marvelling at the children's powers of questioning, at the artwork inspired by their observations and their appetite for learning. For example, one little boy from my playgroup asked me, ‘Why is it some worms have circles on their bellies and some don’t?' Together we were able to find out that there are three main groupings for worms: annelids or segmented worms (which include the earthworm), nematodes or roundworms (which are without segments or ‘circles’) and playhelminths or flatworms.
The value of singing
Authors: Blanchard Chrys
Published: May 2014

Our earliest experience of the world, even before we have been born, is a sound-based one. The prime source of sound for a baby is its mother's voice. Music and language sound similar early on because babies hear the tune of the voice. Research done by a team led by Sandra Trehub, a psychologist at Toronto University, has shown that even new-born babies clearly respond to particular voices, and the tune and rhythm of spoken words with which they become familiar, suggesting that musical significance comes before verbal significance.
Going for a song!
Authors: Blanchard Chrys
Published: May 2014

Sing at bath time (‘Rub a dub dub’).
Stages in toilet training
Authors: Wilcock Liz
Published: May 2014

For most adults, cleanliness is important and personal hygiene is a part of everyday routine. Babies, on the other hand, do not understand about being clean. They feel no disgust at emptying their bowels into a nappy. They have no control of their bowels and bladders, and the use of them is an automatic, reflex action. The timing of toilet training should not be determined by the adult at whim, but should only begin when the child is ready. Success is likely if the training is relaxed and unhurried.
Communicating without words
Authors: Langley Trevor
Published: May 2014

What you are doing every day, possibly without realising it, is communicating through total communication. This means using all available clues, particularly visual ones, to add meaning to what you are saying.
Rhymes to sign
Authors: Langley Trevor
Published: May 2014

Humpty Dumpty sat on the wall:
Using your community as a resource
Authors: Milner Angela
Published: May 2014

The Foundation Stage Curriculum Guidance requires early years practitioners to extend and develop children's knowledge and understanding of the world. Where better to start than with the world on your own doorstep, which is already familiar to the children. It is easily accessible and relates to the day-to-day life of all members of your setting.
Fifty ways of using bean bags
Authors: Wright Kate
Published: May 2014

Every pre-school group should have some bean bags! They are the most versatile piece of hand apparatus. You can use them for balancing, locomotion, co-ordination and in warm-up and group activities, too. They can be used for floor work and on apparatus. In fact, if I was allowed only one set of hand apparatus, I would definitely choose bean bags.
Play your cards right!
Authors: Garrad Barbara
Published: May 2014

Remove the kings, queens, and jacks from a pack of cards. Shuffle and deal six cards to each player. Put the rest in a pile, face down on the table.
Pre-school provision for Travellers
Authors: Sage Cliff
Published: May 2014

Worcestershire has the largest number of Travellers in the West Midlands area, most being Romany Gypsy in origin. Travellers have based themselves in the area for generations and have until recently been able to find employment on the land, particularly in market gardening which is centred in the Vale of Evesham. However traditional sources of employment, such as picking, are in decline here as in many parts of Britain.
The value of fine motor skills
Authors: Stevens Judith
Published: May 2014

It is important that everyone working within the Foundation Stage is aware of the importance of all six areas of learning - including Physical Development. It is quite easy to provide resources which may promote the development of physical skills without specifically planning for the way in which they may be used. It is your responsibility to monitor the planning for Physical Development across all of the Early Learning Goals for this area.
Developing inclusive practice
Authors: Fisher Sue
Published: May 2014

The updated DfES Special Educational Needs Code of Practice states that the provision for children with special educational needs is a matter for everyone involved in each setting. As SENCO, under the overall direction of the head or manager of your setting, you will need to ensure that all staff members recognise and understand their responsibilities towards all the children in their care.
Writing a policy for parents as partners
Authors: Wilcock Liz
Published: May 2014

Parents are the experts on their own child and are their child's first educators. Parents should therefore be seen as partners in the care and education of their child. To meet the needs of the children in your care, you need to build strong relationships with parents and make sure that the sharing of information is a two-way ongoing process.
Feeding pre-school children: guidelines and good practice
Authors: Spicer Beverley
Published: May 2014

New guidelines for school caterers were introduced in 2001. Although the legislation in these doesn't apply to private nurseries or childminders, they contain practical and useful guidance which can be used by anyone catering for the pre-school age group.
Make a collage
Authors: White Hilary
Published: May 2014

Collage helps your child's development in all kinds of ways:
Go on a shoe hunt
Authors: Catterall Rona
Published: May 2014

The world is full of mathematical information often displayed in the form of charts. Young children can find it difficult to appreciate that a mark on a piece of paper could be intended to represent a dog, a wet day or a passing car. Helping your child to fill in this chart will provide the opportunity to represent a pair of shoes with a single mark and then to ‘read’ the data displayed on the finished chart.
Science through role play
Authors: Graham Jo
Published: May 2014

At the Foundation Stage, science is combined with history, geography, technology and even RE under the allencompassing umbrella of Knowledge and Understanding of the World. However, it still separates science and making sense of the world from creativity and language even though science requires creative, curious and imaginative thought and this in turn requires a good command of language.
Outdoor games
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

The concept of number can be brought into lots of outdoor games. Many physical activities incorporate an understanding of space and mathematical language. All you need is a large outside area for children to move freely around and a variety of play equipment
Dental care for pre-school children
Authors: Davis Kerry
Published: May 2014

Dental decay is still a serious problem in young children. Fifty per cent of five-yearolds in England have at least one missing, filled or decayed tooth.
Building teams
Authors: Rodd Dr Jillian
Published: May 2014

Although teamwork is considered to be an important aspect of work in most organisations, building and becoming a team is not an easy task. Many people assume that because a group of people work together, for example as early years practitioners in settings, as members of committees or governing bodies or as members of Early Years Development and Childcare Partnerships, they automatically become a team. In fact, it is a delicate interplay between manager and staff that requires concerted and ongoing effort by everybody to galvanise a group of individuals into an effectively functioning and cohesive team.
Exploring emotions: feeling disappointed
Authors: Bayley Ros
Published: May 2014

It can be difficult for young children to cope with looking forward to something and then finding out that it cannot happen. Really, really wanting something, and not being able to have it, can also be hard to handle.
Recognising numbers 1 to 9
Authors: Somerset Miles Ann
Published: May 2014

There are plenty of opportunities throughout the day when numbers can be brought into conversation with the children. Ask your children to look around the room. Can they spot any numbers anywhere? If you don’t already have a number line on display, make one. What about a large segmented crocodile or caterpillar, with a different number on each part? String the parts together and mount them on the wall.
Winter frieze: a snowy day
Authors: Sparks Linfield Rachel
Published: May 2014

Start by making a collection of photographs and pictures of cold, winter weather. Include pictures of snow, frost, pink wintry skies and dull grey days. As a group, look at the pictures. Encourage children to think whether they have experienced the weathers shown. Many three-year-olds may have had little, if any, experience of snow and may be unaware of its properties. Talk about frost, ice and icicles as frozen water.
Promoting inclusion for: children with learning difficulties
Authors: Fisher Sue
Published: May 2014

Difficulties in cognition and learning can take many forms. Some children who experience learning difficulties may have a recognised medical condition or disability, such as Down's syndrome, but many others will not. These children may be classed as having developmental delay, general learning difficulties or cognitive difficulties and these difficulties may have been recognised or confirmed while the child is attending your setting. However the difficulties are identified, it is your responsibility to provide an environment and activities that are suitable for and accessible to that child - and all the children in your care.