bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A chance to BELIEVE
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: May 2014

Celebrate the joy and wonder of Christmas with this practical project that gets to the real meaning of this Christian festival, as well as highlighting the fun and joy that all young children feel at this time of year. By Ailsa Chapman.
From cooing and babbling to their very first words
Authors: Morrison Denni
Published: May 2014

The rate at which a baby is able to communicate develops markedly in the first year of life. Denni Morrison explains.
Should food advertising for children be banned?
Authors: Dalmeny Kath , Preston Jeremy
Published: May 2014

For adults and children, food is often a cause of conflict. Children refuse to eat certain foods, and feel more in control. Meanwhile, parents and teachers dream up ingenious ways of persuading children to try new foods and to finish up their vegetables.
A telling tale of two London boroughs
Authors: Campbell Cate
Published: May 2014

Cate Campbell compares early years issues in the two very different boroughs of Hackney and Richmond-on-Thames.
It's learn O'CLOCK
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: May 2014

Explore the important concept of time in a fun and practical way with this hands-on project. By Ailsa Chapman.
Holistic approach to looking at the complete child
Authors: Etheredge Jenny
Published: May 2014

Jenny Etheredge explains how the Birth to Three Matters framework helps settings provide the best possible environment for babies and toddlers.
How we can cherry pick the best ideas
Authors: Allen James
Published: May 2014

THERE IS a distinct international flavour to this month's EYE. The issue hops seamlessly from Northern Ireland to South America to Tanzania before landing back somewhere in the familiar. Whilst putting this issue together, I was struck by the realisation that we in the UK cannot afford to be too parochial when it comes to thinking about our approach to the early years. There is no shame in cherry-picking the best ideas in practice from abroad – something that those in Wales have taken on board well.
Make an impression by showing off your classroom…
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: May 2014

A good display is not just down to aesthetics; it should showcase the real learning that takes place in a setting, says Ailsa Chapman.
Child behaviour TALKING BACK
Authors: Sullivan Karen
Published: May 2014

This month, Karen Sullivan casts her expert eye over cheeky behaviour, and explains that children need to learn how others feel when they are rude.
Take on a new persona and explore the world outside
Authors: Marshall Sue
Published: May 2014

Sue Marshall explains how we can familiarise young children with places and situations beyond their own personal experience.
For some creatures beauty is very much skin deep
Authors: Hammond Paula
Published: May 2014

Animals come in all different shapes and sizes, and their skin patterns make an ideal topic for a mini-project, says Paula Hammond.
Does a six-term school year make sense?
Authors: Lane Graham , Keates Chris
Published: May 2014

Ask most rising five-year-olds how old they are and invariably they will answer with something like ‘I'm four and a quarter,’ or ‘I'm four and three-quarters.’
Outdoor play should be there right on the doorstep…
Authors: White Jan , Ryder Richardson Gail
Published: May 2014

Jan White and Gail Ryder Richardson explain why it is so important to unlock the potential of your outdoor spaces.
Shiver me timbers, we're off to sea hunting treasure…
Authors: Slade Andrea
Published: May 2014

Pirates make an ideal topic for a mini-project, says Andrea Slade. Make sure everyone gets in role and dresses up to ensure maximum fun!
Are inclusive schools for all a real betrayal?
Authors: Keates Chris , Simpson Diana
Published: May 2014

The ideal of inclusive schools is a fallacy that betrays the majority of pupils and parents. It offers the false hope that all mainstream schools can offer the same provision to their pupils, yet the reality is that schools are highly differentiated and each child's experience is unique. The current system, under the local
Will Labour deliver its childcare promises?
Authors: Campbell Cate
Published: May 2014

Following this year's budget statement, chancellor of the exchequer Gordon Brown was dubbed ‘the childcare champion’ by the director of Daycare Trust, Stephen Burke, for promising a children's centre for every community and free part-time early education for two-years-olds.
Will ‘educare’ be just a buzz word?
Authors: Campbell Cate
Published: May 2014

The government's five-year plan for education was broadly welcomed when it was announced in July. However, there is scepticism as to whether the apparent commitment to early years will be as effective as promised. Cate Campbell explains.
Help them find the freedom to express thoughts
Authors: Ellyatt Wendy
Published: May 2014

Wendy Ellyatt continues her look at the make-up of the Montessori environment, examining sensorial materials, maths and language.
Keeping abreast of the latest in policy initiatives
Authors: Brunton Pat , Thornton Linda
Published: May 2014

Pat Brunton and Linda Thornton unpick the relevant frameworks and initiatives that refer to special educational needs and disability.
From pasta to rice, there is a rich diet in the world
Authors: Etheredge Jenny
Published: May 2014

This mini-project offers children the opportunity to learn about and try a wide range of foods from around the world. By Jenny Etheredge.
Creating a loving community through art and imagination
Authors: Ellyatt Wendy
Published: May 2014

Wendy Ellyatt finishes her look at the make-up of a Montessori setting, examining cultural studies, art, imagination and a loving community.
The first day: How early years staff can prepare
Authors: Lee-Potter Emma
Published: May 2014

The first day of nursery or school is an experience few forget, and is a day that requires careful preparation, says Emma Lee-Potter.
The mirror of Reggio is alive and well in the West Midlands
Authors: Bayley Ros
Published: May 2014

Ros Bayley visits two settings to find out how they have been influenced by an understanding of the Reggio Emilia approach.
The big hitters
Authors: Stevens Judith
Published: May 2014

Judith Stevens explores the wide range of concepts that can be introduced and reinforced through children's fascination with dinosaurs.
The crucial first steps that lead to crawling
Authors: Thornton Stephanie
Published: May 2014

Babies learn first to crawl, and then to walk. What do we know about how they tackle these new skills? Stephanie Thornton explains.
More questions about methods of the movement
Authors: Ellyatt Wendy
Published: May 2014

In her last article in this series, Wendy Ellyatt answers some more commonly asked questions about Montessori methods.
Will the workload deal cut demands on teachers?
Authors: Keates Chris , Frankel Hannah
Published: May 2014

Over the years, it became customary for teachers to take responsibility for anything that needed to be done in schools. Consequently, teachers' working hours steadily increased, not through increased teaching but by the number of additional tasks heaped upon them, many unrelated to the job of teaching. All of these were in addition to other demands from government, LEAs and Ofsted.
Why childcare now tops political agenda
Authors: Campbell Cate
Published: May 2014

With a general election taking place this year, the government is putting the early years at the forefront of its political agenda. But how much support for Labour's proposals is there really? Cate Campbell reports.
Let children satisfy their natural sense of curiosity
Authors: Brunton Pat , Thornton Linda
Published: May 2014

Children's curiosity will thrive in a setting that values their knowledge, experience and skills, say Pat Brunton and Linda Thornton.
Supporting the transition into year 1 classes
Authors: Scott Kym
Published: May 2014

Kym Scott explains how continuity from the foundation stage to year 1 is being supported in schools in Lewisham, south-east London.
Learning how to hold young children's focus
Authors: Hammond Paula
Published: May 2014

Paula Hammond looks at a range of attention-grabbing techniques to keep children in your setting involved, interested and inspired.
Sounding off about the importance of phonic awareness
Authors: Palmer Sue , Bayley Ros
Published: May 2014

Sue Palmer and Ros Bayley look at the importance of phonics teaching and the ways of making phonics fun for young children.
A poem a day helps you read, learn and play
Authors: Stevens Judith
Published: May 2014

Activities based on rhymes and poetry provide children with an enjoyable way of learning to read. Judith Stevens explains.
Scientists of all ages need to share their ideas
Authors: Brunton Pat , Thornton Linda
Published: May 2014

Pat Brunton and Linda Thornton explore ways for children to share discoveries and ideas with other members of their group
Time to broaden our definition of go-ahead learners
Authors: Sutherland Margaret
Published: May 2014

Working with gifted learners in an inclusive way is vital if we are serious about offering opportunity for all, says Margaret Sutherland.
Learning how to behave well is a lifelong goal
Authors: Mathieson Kay
Published: May 2014

Kay Mathieson explores how the behaviour of childcare practitioners has a direct affect on the development of children's social skills.
Now it's time to turn vision into reality
Authors: Campbell Cate
Published: May 2014

Cate Campbell considers the potential implications of the government's latest chilcare workforce consultation paper for early years practitioners.
Consider how your setting supports children's learning
Authors: Allingham Sue
Published: May 2014

Early years advisor Sue Allingham considers the important impact that resources and the environment make on education.
Simply NECTAR
Authors: Warner Maureen
Published: May 2014

The summer sun is shining and the busy bees are buzzing around the garden. Maureen Warner explores activities that will give children an insight into the wonderful world of bumbling, blundering honeybees.
When going to school is a voyage of discovery
Authors: Green Christine
Published: May 2014

So many things pass us by when we travel. Christine Green explores the learning potential of taking an interest in our surroundings.
From building sites to sandcastles, it all adds up in play
Authors: Bromley Helen
Published: May 2014

Helen Bromley looks at ways that stories are used to introduce the idea of mathematics to children through role-play and experience.
Those troublesome and terrible toddlers
Authors: Henty Neil
Published: May 2014

Reading the news this month, two stories have caught my attention. According to reports, nursery staff are to be asked to look out for potential future troublemakers and identify them to the relevant authorities. Big brother casts its eye on the early years (Orwell, rather than the C4 nonsense).
The right way to make learning full of colour
Authors: Goss Robert
Published: May 2014

Robert Goss explains how colour, shape and texture can transform outdoor areas into paradises of learning and development.
Has inclusion in early years settings gone too far?
Authors: Cameron David , Rieser Richard
Published: May 2014

How we provide education and opportunity for children with learning difficulties and disabilities is vitally important.
We need more special schools, says Warnock
Authors: Campbell Cate
Published: May 2014

Cate Campbell considers the impact Baroness Warnock's re-evaluation of inclusion will have on the education of children with special educational needs.
All together NOW!
Authors: Stead Kay
Published: May 2014

The process of working together to create something in a setting has more benefits than simply trying to achieve a finished product, as Kay Stead explains.
We must support the parents of children with SEN
Authors: Lee Kate
Published: May 2014

Kate Lee explains how practitioners can help parents of children with special needs cope with raising and educating their child.
Use your voices to regain the initiative
Authors: Henty Neil
Published: May 2014

There are times when writing an editorial can be a daunting task. Sometimes when work has been all-consuming and kept the outside world at bay, the events of the early years and of life in general pass by in a haze of half-glimpsed news broadcasts and press releases. At other times there is just too much to write about, to talk about, to share, to stimulate and to discuss. Happily, this is a month when I have so much to write about; unhappily, I have very little space. So what has happened that has made me eager to write, to type and to share?
Good display can lead to new ideas and learning
Authors: Brunton Pat , Thornton Linda
Published: May 2014

Pat Brunton and Linda Thornton explain why spending care and attention on showing children's work sends a very positive message.
What can you do when your child has no friends
Authors: McTavish Frank
Published: May 2014

Does it matter whether a child is popular? Are there ways to raise the popularity of a child? Frank McTavish explores the issues.
SHARING!
Authors: Sullivan Karen
Published: May 2014

Getting young children to share might appear a daunting task, but as Karen Sullivan explains, most children are more than happy to share.
Our own attitude to food will help shape our children's habits
Authors: Sullivan Karen
Published: May 2014

In the third and final part of the series, Karen Sullivan looks at ways to help a child's weight remain stable and within healthy limits.
Food for thought about eating and learning
Authors: Fidler Wendy
Published: May 2014

How exacltly does diet affect learning and what should we look to be including or avoiding? Wendy Fidler explores the issues.
Should sex education be taught in the early years?
Authors: Allingham Sue , Frankel Hannah
Published: May 2014

Perhaps controversially, I intend to argue that very young children should have ‘sex’ education. Why the inverted commas? The minute a word like ‘sex’ hits the media, there is immediate interest. Everyone likes a bit of salacious news. However, attach it to ‘five-year-olds’ or ‘reception age’, and things are different. A scandal of a different kind appears to loom.
Planning effective practice is a matter of keeping active
Authors: Parker Helen
Published: May 2014

Helen Parker examines the impact that the KEEP document will have on training and personal development among staff in the early years.
Integrated services should now lead to FASST improvement
Authors: Osgood Wendy
Published: May 2014

Wendy Osgood examines a pioneering approach to multi-agency working in Hampshire, that has lead to improved outcomes for children.
A place to feel safe in this big bad world
Authors: Henty Neil
Published: May 2014

Teaching can be one of the most rewarding professions, but it can also be one of the toughtest. For every moment of pride in watching a child’s achievements and developments, there are other moments of frustration, stress and bewilderment. Stress and frustration can come from teaching a class of unruly pupils, government targets, and from a never-ending barrage of new legislation. But as a teacher, you are also prone to stress from colleagues, working relationships, outside pressures and parents’ expectations. At times it can seem like working as a teacher (and in this sense I use the term loosely to include everyone who plays a part in the care and education of young children) is like working in a war zone.
Playing with PLANETS
Authors: Milmine Lesley
Published: May 2014

The Solar System is a place full of mystery and wonder. It also lends itself to early years practical activities as Lesley Milmine explains.
Now is the time to put chatter back on the agenda
Authors: Turnbull Margo
Published: May 2014

Margo Turnbull looks at communication disability, how this hidden disability reveals itself and what you can do about it?
SMACKING!
Authors: Sullivan Karen
Published: May 2014

Karen Sullivan examines the case against smacking in the first of a two-part look at discipline.
It's a wonder our children can learn in this toxic world
Authors: Palmer Sue
Published: May 2014

Sue Palmer introduces a new series on how contemporary culture is affecting children's potential to learn and what we can do about it.
Bill provides level playing field for all
Authors: Henty Neil
Published: May 2014

You might have noticed recently that the government issued its Childcare Bill. This document was greeted with the usual over-reaction from large quarters of the press and by some people who should know better. The bill states that local authorities are duty-bound to provide childcare for everyone, which is great news for children, but will leave LEAs wondering where the money is to come from. It also means the foundation stage has been given the same legal status as the national curriculum for schools.
LEAs are failing childminders who care for children with
Authors: Hathaway Julie , Pye Judith
Published: May 2014

Earlier this year, a survey of some of our National Childminding Association (NCMA) members found that twothirds of those caring for a disabled child - whether they had a physical impairment or delayed language development - felt that their local education authority (LEA) was not a source of information when they had sought training and information. It was clear from the survey that many registered childminders were not receiving the professional support from LEAs they need when caring for a disabled child.
You don't have to be a rock star to work here, but it helps!
Authors: Mason Helen
Published: May 2014

Helen Mason explains how men are making an impact in the early years through an innovative music programme in Lincolnshire.
Complex foods give children a perfect kick-start to the day
Authors: Wolman Julia
Published: May 2014

It is supposed to be the most important meal of the day, and as Julia Wolman explains, eating a healthy breakfast is vital for young children.
More places could lead to less choice
Authors: Campbell Cate
Published: May 2014

Cate Campbell considers the reaction to plans for increasing free state provision of early years places following fears that this could lead to the closure of more voluntary nurseries, reducing parental choice.
Dazzling smiles need a diet of care and healthy foods
Authors: Wolman Julia
Published: May 2014

The state of our young children's teeth is of increasing concern. Julia Wolman looks at what can be done to promote a healthy smile.
Asylum-seeking children: Reaching out to those in need
Authors: Antoniou Lia , Reynolds Rachel
Published: May 2014

Dr Lia Antoniou and Rachel Reynolds discuss the issues and barriers to including asylum-seeking children in early years settings.
The path of LIFE
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: May 2014

Children are fascinated with the idea of growing up and getting older. Ailsa Chapman provides a number of fascinating activities that can be used as starting points for further exploration of this timeless theme.
Children really are the experts when it comes to design
Authors: Coppard Hattie
Published: May 2014

Hattie Coppard describes a pioneering approach to consultation with children when designing playgrounds for use in early years settings.
Workforce to finally get the recognition it really deserves
Authors: Seward Helen
Published: May 2014

Helen Seward takes a look at the early years professional status, the impact it will have and the routes to gaining this level 6 qualification.
Let children take the lead on their own learning journey
Authors: Brown Amanda , Hurst Maraide , Kirby Fiona
Published: May 2014

A setting in Cheshire has been on a learning journey that has resulted both in changes to the provision it offers and to the attitudes of its staff.
Turning pieces into patchwork quilts
Authors: Featherstone Sally
Published: May 2014

Assessment of children's learning is the art of collecting small pieces of evidence and stitching them together, like a quilt, to make judgements on each child, as Sally Featherstone explains.
If children could vote
Authors: Edgington Margaret
Published: May 2014

Practitioners have been inundated with consultation documents over the past year, but how many actually consider what children want when completing response forms, asks Margaret Edgington?
When the talking stops
Authors: Cosh Jackie
Published: May 2014

For young children the ability to communicate with adults and peers is very important, but what happens when they choose not to talk? Jackie Cosh explores what we know about selective mutism.
Small world
Authors: Stevens Judith
Published: May 2014

Judith Stevens continues our exploration of how children learn through diff erent environments, objects and events by focusing on imaginative small world play.
Moving like machines
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

The theme of the second in this series of drama sessions for young children is ‘machines’. It includes warm up games, ideas and various physical activities suitable for a 30-minute drama lesson.
Supernanny is really not the answer
Authors: Pritchard Tricia
Published: May 2014

The rise of television programmes that show parents how to discipline and raise their children may be popular with audiences but are causing concern among professionals, as Tricia Pritchard explains.
Bringing ideas to life
Authors: Wright Gillian
Published: May 2014

Childrens lives are becoming filled with, and in some ways, dependent on technology. This means they are receptive to using ICT, especially when it builds on their own interests, as Gill Wright explains.
The Raising of Standards
Authors: Dixon Peter
Published: May 2014

THE ‘RAISING of standards’ always reminds me of Saturday morning pictures, circa ages ago… when we booed through love scenes and cheered every cavalry troop battling to raise the fl ag on a besieged fort or fortifi ed corral.
The phonics debate refuses to go away
Authors: Henty Neil
Published: May 2014

THE LETTERS page of eye is usually a good gauge of what issues are playing on the minds of practitioners in the early years. In the past couple of issues – see page 10, for this month's letters – the topic of phonics has reared its head. This is an issue that will not go away and one that I am sure that will never see everyone in agreement.
Play without prejudice
Authors: Martin Estelle
Published: May 2014

The number of documents, policies and frameworks that defend and enhance the rights of children grows each year, but how can we be sure our own practice supports them? Estelle Martin explains.
Gender issues in Gender issues in early education
Authors: Bayley Ros
Published: May 2014

The brains of boys and girls develop at diff erent rates, a fact borne out by neural research. This means, as Ros Bayley explains, that practitioners need to ensure children are engaged in appropriate activities.
What we can learn from… Sand and water
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: May 2014

Sand and water are mainstays of provision in the early years. But how often do practitioners think about how to make this provision exciting and meaningful? Ailsa Chapman explains.
Find the time to relax
Authors: Rattigan Marlene
Published: May 2014

The modern world is fast, bright, colourful, loud and can at times be confusing. In this article Marlene Rattigan discusses practical ways to introduce relaxation techniques into the early years.
Play the natural way
Authors: Buck Elisabeth
Published: May 2014

In 2004, New Ark Playgroup in Peterborough was awarded first prize in the Outdoor Setting of the Year category at the eye awards. Here, Elisabeth Buck discusses recent developments at the setting.
Appropriate risk-taking environments
Authors: Pritchard Tricia
Published: May 2014

We live in an age where increasing health and safety concerns are in danger of taking away children's exposure to essential risk-taking activities. We cannot let this happen, as Tricia Pritchard explains.
Management software
Authors: Brunton Pat , Thornton Linda
Published: May 2014

Nurseries are becoming increasingly complex places and there is a need to keep account of everything electronically. Pat Brunton and Linda Thornton look at what software is on offer to help.
Spreading the word about assessment
Authors: Featherstone Sally
Published: May 2014

Keeping records of the progress that children are making in the early years has always been difficult, especially when making that information available to year 1 teachers, as Sally Featherstone explains.
Responsive planning
Authors: Martin Estelle
Published: May 2014

Detailed observation and assessment are essential practices for all early years practitioners if planning is to be responsive to young children's learning requirements, as Estelle Martin explains.
Childcarers add value to communities
Authors: Bayram Liz
Published: May 2014

Childcarers are given a raw deal in the press at times, which is completely at odds with the excellent work and dedicated role they provide to families and local communities, as Liz Bayram explains.
Perfect partnerships
Authors: Banks Louise
Published: May 2014

Children's centres are a real focus for the delivery of children's services, including childminding. The release of the EYFS means this partnership will go from strength to strength, as Louise Banks explains.
Going green
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: May 2014

The environment is under threat and we live in a throwaway culture, but as Ailsa Chapman suggests this is the perfect reason for introducing recycling concepts and junk modelling.
Do play with your food
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

This drama session uses the theme of food to develop miming and language skills. It includes warm ups, circle games, mime and drama activities and opportunities for role-play. Take your pick!
Every parent matters for childcarers
Authors: Bayram Liz
Published: May 2014

The theme for this year's National Childminding Week is ‘supporting families’, which means childcarers can raise awareness of the valuable work they perform, not only with children but with parents also.
More jobs for the boys
Authors: Simons Nick
Published: May 2014

In 2005, Nick Simons was presented with the opportunity to manage the Westwood Day Care Nursery in Coventry, a challenge he had looked forward to ever since he turned 21-years-old.
Just as nature intended
Authors: Hindmarch Sonali
Published: May 2014

Play and learning in an outdoor environment is essential for every child, not only for the obvious physical benefits, but also for social and emotional wellbeing, as Sonali Hindmarch explains.
Massage in schools
Authors: Collins Margaret
Published: May 2014

A revolutionary programme of peer-to-peer massage in nurseries and schools is encouraging children to respect other people's wishes and moderate their own behaviour, as Margaret Collins explains.
The great wireless debate is raging
Authors: Parkin Philip
Published: May 2014

The wi-fi debate is raging, but does either side have evidence to support their arguments, and should we submit children to wireless working without more research into its possible long-term effects?
Why training matters
Authors: Roberts Ann
Published: May 2014

Over one million children and their families are now served by children's centres, but as Anne Roberts explains, practitioners need to have specific training to meet the demands of multi-agency working.
Planning for the future
Authors: Stittrich-Lyons Helga
Published: May 2014

The University of Portsmouth has taken the logical step of turning personal development planning into a professional version for the modern early years student, as Helga Stittrich-Lyons explains.
NITTY GRITTY PRIMARY
Authors: Dixon Peter
Published: May 2014

LAST WEEK I was able to creep into Nitty Gritty Nursery School, in Nitty Gritty Land, for a quick snoop around. In retrospect I was lucky to get my nose inside, for the school is full and besieged by parents pleading for places. Th ose who fail to secure a place tend to keep their children at home, rather than subject them to the Muck and Magic Playschool at the other end of the High Street.
Gardening
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: May 2014

Having an outdoor area is integral to education because of the facilities it offers and introducing gardening to young children offers excellent learning opportunities, as Ailsa Chapman explains.
Classroom assistants get equal leave
Authors: O'Neill Jim
Published: May 2014

The Equal Opportunities Commission has concluded a report into the role and status of classroom assistants in Scotland by recommending they receive the same paid leave as local authority employees.
Learning never stops
Authors: Pimentel Ruth
Published: May 2014

During the course of its 100 issues, eye has reported on many government initiatives, the latest of which, the Early Years Foundation Stage, is set to drive quality and standards well into the future.
PLAIN DAFT
Authors: Dixon Peter
Published: May 2014

I DON'T KNOW if it is true or not, but someone told me that the Duke of Wellington's address was simply: 1, London. My address for the 30 years I lived in London was: 52, Stanley Road and I recall very clearly our neighbours. My mum invented names for them: Mrs Vanguard, who always pushed to the front in queues; Mrs Potty; Mr and Mrs Sheenaniker; Mr Nosey and Mr Knowitall.
We require your nominations, please
Authors: Henty Neil
Published: May 2014

WE HAVE a new government department covering the early years. Well, a new name for the old one. It's goodbye Education and Skills, and hello to the Department for Children, Schools and Families. It's Balls (E) in for Johnson (A), and universities have been joined by innovation in their own peculiar fiefdom. What does this all mean for the early years? Probably not very much. Still, Gordon Brown has been making the right noises.
Practical preparation
Authors: Likierman Helen , Muter Valerie
Published: May 2014

Practitioners are in a prime position to help parents prepare their children for entering school. Drs Helen Likierman and Valerie Muter provide practical tips for ensuring a child's first day is a success.
EYPS: Misunderstood
Authors: Pearce Barbara
Published: May 2014

The introduction of the Early Years Professional Status has been criticised in some quarters. In this article, Barbara Pearce, explains her belief in the success of the status from a provider's perspective.
Signing for story time
Authors: Slack Garry
Published: May 2014

It is not only deaf, or hard of hearing, children who benefit from the use of sign language, as Garry Slack explains. It can be used to improve the communication skills of all children and even enhance storytelling.
We must encourage a love of reading
Authors: Lafferty Pam
Published: May 2014

Strong foundations are needed to develop both essential literacy skills and a lifelong love of reading, something that the government's phonics message is not necessarily helping, as Pam Lafferty explains.
The shoemaker's story
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

Judith Harries introduces a number of practical activities based on the story of The Elves and the Shoemaker, that will help children explore all areas of foundation stage learning and development.
The benefits of a diverse workforce
Authors: Bayram Liz
Published: May 2014

It is important to encourage people from diverse backgrounds to become registered childminders to reflect the ethnic background of the parents and children in local communities, says Liz Bayram.
Reading in the family
Authors: Clarke Rosemary
Published: May 2014

Practitioners are aware of the important role that families play in children's learning. In this article, Rosemary Clarke introduces the work of Booktrust, a charity that is encouraging families to love books.
Stepping into learning
Authors: Barber Jenny
Published: May 2014

Many of the best resources in settings prove to be familiar, everyday objects, rather than shop-bought items. Jenny Barber provides practical activities that use socks and shoes as a starting point.
Christmas is coming
Authors: Brunton Pat , Thornton Linda
Published: May 2014

There are many religious festivals in December and each one lends itself to a collection. Christmas, with its colourful tree and decorations offers many learning opportunities in the foundation stage.
Bathed in moonlight
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

The moon is a mysterious place for young children, somewhere that serves as fuel to their active and fertile imaginations. Judith Harries introduces practical activities based on Whatever Next!
Practise makes perfect
Authors: Worpole Natalie
Published: May 2014

The CACHE Level 3 Certificate in Early Years Foundation Stage Practice will help to ensure high quality provision across the UK and provides practitioners with a nationally recognised EYFS qualification.
Conflict resolution and behaviour management
Authors: Underwood Rachael
Published: May 2014

Rachael Underwood explores a six-stage problem-solving approach to conflict resolution that practitioners can use to ensure children in their settings have positive outcomes to their disputes.
Reach out with stories
Authors: Leeper Marion
Published: May 2014

Bag books are opening up multi-sensory story experiences to children of all ages and abilities, both in schools and libraries. Marion Leeper discusses how they have enhanced her own storytelling technique.
A snowy winter's night
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

Judith Harries introduces a wide range of practical activities based on the ever popular children's picture book, One Snowy Night, which will be perfect for the shorter, colder, winter days of January.
Forming a loving bond
Authors: Day Lin
Published: May 2014

The excitement and emotion that follows childbirth is not always conducive to forming immediate loving bonds between parents and their children, some attachments take time, as Dr Lin Day explains.
Holidays
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: May 2014

Everybody loves a holiday, whether it be a two-week break in an exotic location, a weekend with the grandparents or a picnic in the park, which is why it makes a great subject for early years learning.
The story of our lives
Authors: Bromley Helen
Published: May 2014

In the third part of her series profiling essential early years authors, Helen Bromley explores some of the wonderful works of the ever popular Julia Donaldson, author of The Gruffalo among many others.
Know what you grow
Authors: Godridge Tracey
Published: May 2014

HOW MANY of the children in your setting have ever picked a strawberry and eaten it? Had a close encounter with a sheep? Know that carrots grow in the ground? Today, fewer and fewer children have the chance to experience first-hand growing, farming and the countryside. Clearly, there is a need to reconnect children – and the younger the better – with nature. It was this concern that led, in 2001, to the launching of a new government initiative: Growing Schools.
Chris Athey; John Dewey
Authors: Martin Estelle
Published: May 2014

This month, the pioneers series continues with a look at two progressive educators whose work exerts a major influence on current early years thinking and practice: Chris Athey and John Dewey.
Superheroes in action
Authors: Storey Brenda
Published: May 2014

Practitioners seem to be divided on whether superhero play has a place in settings, however, it is of great interest for some children, and used properly can encourage positive learning and development.
Adventures of Mini Grey
Authors: Bromley Helen
Published: May 2014

The latest article in our essential authors for the early years series, features the original, intelligent and funny picture books of Mini Grey, many of which focus on the theme of ‘different view points’.
The chemical evolution
Authors: Day Lin
Published: May 2014

Thankfully, the vast majority of parents want the very best for their children. However, many will be unaware of the hidden dangers that many baby care products carry for even the youngest babies.
SPECIAL TREASURES
Authors: Dixon Peter
Published: May 2014

WITH METICULOUS care Debbie pasted a photograph of little Penny Blades skipping in the playground into the child's Special Measures Early Years report booklet. Beneath it she wrote:
On your marks, get set… go!
Authors: Henty Neil
Published: May 2014

LIKE ME, you have probably been glued to the Olympics over recent weeks. Th e achievement of our team over in China has surpassed virtually all expectations and is an apt reward for the hard work, time, commitment, eff ort and belief shown by everyone involved in getting so many medals – and so many personal bests, as well.
Implementing the Early Years Foundation Stage: The challenges ahead
Authors: Bayley Ros
Published: May 2014

After all the months of waiting, after all the build-up, the support and recent controversy, the Early Years Foundation Stage has finally arrived. Ros Bayley takes a timely look at some of the challenges ahead.
Networking is the key to success
Authors: Tanuku Purnima
Published: May 2014

Purnima Tanuku explores why networking is not just for business people in suits and why every nursery manager and owner should think about expanding their own horizons to ensure success.
Special Treasures
Authors: Dixon Peter
Published: May 2014

MRS FOOTFINGER was the first person to encounter the phonics booth. Th ere it stood, flapping in all its glory beneath the early Monday morning sunshine of Special Treasures’ grassy area. A colourful construction resembling something between a Victorian bathing machine and a fortune teller’s den. With a flurry of laughter headteacher Mrs Harpoon flapped her way out.
The weather
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: May 2014

Although we may not always appreciate the fact, in the UK we are fortunate enough to experience a wide variety of weather conditions. All of which offer fantastic learning opportunities.
Cast the reading spell
Authors: Bromley Helen
Published: May 2014

Although she is a relative newcomer to the industry, Emily Gravett has already won two Kate Greenaway awards for her original and inventive picture books and is already an essential author for your collection.
Tackling debt in nurseries
Authors: Tanuku Purnima
Published: May 2014

In the current economic climate, when all of us are feeling the pinch on our purse strings, it may seem churlish to talk about debt, but nurseries must have policies in place or face a very uncertain future.
The power of learning
Authors: Pound Linda
Published: May 2014

In the second part of her series about putting educational theories into practice, Linda Pound examines the work of Guy Claxton and how it can help children to become curious, confident, effective learners.
The power of touch
Authors: Day Lin
Published: May 2014

Babies and young children love to be touched, this is common knowledge, but how many parents and practitioners know the real benefits that can be gained from physical contact and massage.
Spotting little stars: High ability, gifted and talented children
Authors: Hook Elaine
Published: May 2014

Labelling children as ‘gifted and talented’ or genius, or of high ability may be contentious to some, but by doing so, we can offer personalised learning and appropriate opportunities, as Elaine Hook explains.
Reviews
Authors: Horvath Martine
Published: May 2014

Developing Pre-School Communication and Language is an excellent resource for all those working with young children. From 10 key strategies, 20 ‘Golden Questions’; what are appropriate expectations through to supporting bilingual learners, this book is packed with helpful advice and highly practical tips on supporting and developing crucial language and communication skills of young children.
All children have needs
Authors: Collins Margaret
Published: May 2014

All primary schools now have a duty to promote disability equality, which provides an opportunity for all settings to promote the needs of both able-bodied and disabled children and to change attitudes.
Sensory explorations
Authors: Day Lin
Published: May 2014

The process of gathering and deciphering information may start before birth, but sensory education begins immediately after birth when the sense organs begin to work overtime, as Dr Lin Day explains.
Special Treasures
Authors: Dixon Peter
Published: May 2014

‘What I am looking towards,’ announced Mrs Harpoon at the Tuesday staff meeting, ‘is to hold a parent's evening that is driven by our senior management team. It will be objectively targeted by staff networking and essentially inclusive.’
Music of the spheres
Authors: Rattigan Marlene
Published: May 2014

Music, dance and drama are experiences that can enhance children's learning. Exposure to global sounds can also be used to extend children's knowledge of the world and of different cultures.
The danger of creating risk-free childhoods
Authors: Gill Tim
Published: May 2014

Childhood in the UK is being colonised by risk-aversion and activities that were once thought as normal are being branded dangerous. This is creating a world that is hostile to children, says Tim Gill.
Developing creativity
Authors: Brunton Pat , Thornton Linda
Published: May 2014

This article, the first in a new 12-month series from Pat Brunton and Linda Thornton, explores starting points for developing children's creativity and critical thinking in the Early Years Foundation Stage.
Bring language to life
Authors: Leeper Marion
Published: May 2014

The advent of commercial language development systems has scared many into thinking that there is nothing more to language development than phonics. This is far from the truth, says Marion Leeper.
Reflect upon learning
Authors: Brunton Pat , Thornton Linda
Published: May 2014

In the second instalment of their creativity and critical thinking series, Pat Brunton and Linda Thornton explore the many developmental learning experiences that fl ow from work with mirrors and refl ections.
Need for more male role models
Authors: Parkin Philip
Published: May 2014

It is generally accepted that children need more male role models in their lives, both at home and in nurseries and schools. But what exactly is stopping young men entering the teaching profession?
Accidents will happen
Authors: Dunn Carrie
Published: May 2014

Although children should be exposed to some risk, and bumps and cuts are a part of everyday life, it is important that settings remove dangerous hazards and that all staff are aware of accident procedures.
Omega-3 brain maker
Authors: Day Lin
Published: May 2014

Recent research has shown that consuming omega-3 can aid development in babies and children, and has also shown its benefits when taken during the latter stages of pregnancy, as Dr Lin Day explains.
Support for teenage parents
Authors: Bayram Liz
Published: May 2014

Through schemes, such as Care to Learn, registered childminders provide a responsive and valued childcare service for teenage parents who may otherwise have been caught in a cycle of poverty.
Keep on aiming higher
Authors: Dembrey Rob
Published: May 2014

The view that gaining Early Years Professional Status is the pinnacle of professional training is wrong. Rob Dembrey looks at what packages are on off er to help you continue your development.
Playing with big blocks
Authors: Storey Brenda
Published: May 2014

The use of large hollow blocks in early years settings off er children large-scale play and learning opportunities. Brenda Storey explains how and why to provide the space and support needed.
Books with traditional tales
Authors: Bromley Helen
Published: May 2014

Every book corner should have a large collection of traditional tales. These started life as oral stories and form a part of our literal heritage, and they can amuse, entertain and educate in equal measures.
The holistic revolution
Authors: Willis Richard
Published: May 2014

Education has increasingly taken on aspects of the holistic approach over the last few decades with approaches, such as Forest School, recognising that we are shaped by a wide range of influences.
What's new pussycat?
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

These two rhymes focus on the antics of cats, both good and bad, and are a fun way to introduce the idea of caring for animals. The rhymes can be used to explore all of the early learning goals.
Fathers in childcare
Authors: Day Lin
Published: May 2014

For years, anthropologists and psychologists played down the role of fathers in childcare. However, we now know that it is vital for a child's wellbeing to have positive male role-models and paternal care.
Continuing wireless concerns
Authors: Parkin Philip
Published: May 2014

The evidence that supports a ban on the use of wi-fi networks in schools and nurseries is growing, with even leading experts in the field failing to agree on whether long-term low-level exposure is safe.
Networks essential for progress
Authors: Fletcher Andrew
Published: May 2014

Registered childminders have consistently shown that they are able to deliver the free entitlement, however, to continue this good progress, we will need networks to be set up in all local authorities.
Early learning and Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Blackburn Carolyn
Published: May 2014

Carolyn Blackburn introduces the findings from a pioneering project that investigated the little known Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders in relation to building practitioner knowledge in early years settings.
Right of exemption refused
Authors: House Richard
Published: May 2014

The first application for exemption from the Early Learning Goals made by a childminder has been refused by the DCSF despite the applicant having the full backing of parents, writes Richard House.
Professional partners
Authors: Allen Shirley
Published: May 2014

Gaining professional status is a recognition of achieving certain standards in an early years practitioner's career, however, great provision can only really be achieved by building partnerships.
Serious business of play
Authors: Pound Linda
Published: May 2014

Just what is play? It might seem an easy enough question, but it is one that has taxed the great pioneers of the early years and continues to do so to this very day. It seems that play is still not fully understood.
We are all active learners
Authors: Farmer Neil
Published: May 2014

Active learning builds upon the inherent drive that children have to find out more about their world, to explore relationships and their meaning, to challenge, to take risks and to discover for themselves.
Raising your profile
Authors: Tanuku Purnima
Published: May 2014

When looking to cut costs in this difficult economic climate, it might seem that your marketing budget would be an easy place to start, however, promoting your setting can be vital to survival.
Through innocent eyes
Authors: Day Lin
Published: May 2014

The qualities and mechanics of the eye and of visual recognition have been widely studied, although recent studies have shown that babies have greater visual capabilities than was previously believed.
Boys narrowing the gap
Authors: Jarman Elizabeth
Published: May 2014

In the follow-up to her article in the April 2009 edition, Elizabeth Jarman examines the many positive eff ects of implementing a new approach to providing communication friendly spaces in settings.
Observation skills
Authors: Barber Jenny
Published: May 2014

The Early Years Foundation Stage has placed great emphasis on the use of observation in early years settings, but this is nothing new, it has always been essential for providing quality childcare practice.
Super versatile sand play
Authors: Storey Brenda
Published: May 2014

Often overlooked and undervalued, sand is a very cheap and versatile material that can be used for science discovery, as a small world environment or craft resource, among many other applications.
Comics and cartoons
Authors: Bromley Helen
Published: May 2014

In the final part of her current series, Helen Bromley rounds of her look at the types of books that should be available in every early years setting by choosing her 10 favourite comic and cartoon-style reads.
Care commission shake-up
Authors: Simpson Maggie
Published: May 2014

Prospective childminders in Scotland will need to complete a generic care service form and will have to prove their financial viability under changes launched recently by the Care Commission.
Early education in Murcia
Authors: Gomez Christine
Published: May 2014

Visiting different types of settings in countries that are only a short flight away can present us with opportunities to compare provision, reflect upon and question the priorities for our own practice.