bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kelly's bar decision is long overdue
Authors: Henty Neil
Published: May 2014

The government is to be congratulated on its decision to act with relative immediacy on the recommendations of the Bichard Inquiry. For those who have yet to come across this piece of news, and there surely cannot be many of you, it is the decision to bar any person who has been cautioned or convicted of sexual offences against children from working in schools. They will be placed on List 99. Furthermore, any employer in the education sector will be mandated to carry out criminal record checks on any newly appointed teacher or school worker.
Protection, not point scoring, is the priority
Authors: Campbell Cate
Published: May 2014

Child protection should be paramount to any society, so it is always a shock when mistakes are made and dangerous people are allowed to work in schools. Cate Campbell examines the government's response to recent criticism.
Helping children make their mark on the world outside
Authors: Bromley Helen
Published: May 2014

Helen Bromley explores providing children with opportunities to read, use malleable materials and make marks in the outdoor area.
Telling a story can open up magical worlds of learning
Authors: Smith Donald
Published: May 2014

Storytelling can convey history, instruction and, as Dr Donald Smith explains, can also be used to deliver the Scottish curriculum.
Where we learn is just as important as what we learn
Authors: Brunton Pat , Thornton Linda
Published: May 2014

The design of learning environments has changed a great deal since Robert Owen's time, as Pat Brunton and Linda Thornton explain.
Do we need the Early Years Professional status?
Authors: Tanuku Purnima , Edgington Margaret
Published: May 2014

Before the end of 2006 the first cohort of individuals will be accredited with Early Years Professional (EYP) status. The Children’s Workforce Development Council (CWDC), the organisation leading the creation of the status, says it is key to raising the status of the early years profession and the quality of provision. The training programme for the status will be conducted by CACHE, in association with Middlesex University, with the view to create a full degree programme down the line.
Still time to reward your colleagues
Authors: Henty Neil
Published: May 2014

These are exciting times in the early years, and exciting times for EYE. September 9 and 10 will see EYE's first ever early years conference in Scotland. The two-day event is being held close to Robert Owen's famous nursery at the New Lanark Visitor Centre and will feature leading early years specialists from across Scotland. Later in the month, September 22 and 23, EYE will be hosting Early Years 2006 at The Rendezvous Hotel in Skipton, North Yorkshire. Last year was my first early years conference and I will admit to being extremely impressed by the speakers, the organisation, the workshops and the wonderful staff.
The fruits of our LABOUR
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: May 2014

September brings the start of a new school year and the onset of autumn, it is also, traditionally, harvest time, as Ailsa Chapman explains.
Movement and physical development
Authors: Maude Patricia
Published: May 2014

Learning to move, moving to play and playing to learn should be the mantra at the heart of all good practice, especially if children are to fulfil their physical literacy potential, as Patricia Maude explains.
Games for when it rains
Authors: Green Christine
Published: May 2014

Despite the rise of the outdoor classroom, it is not always possible for young children to brave the wintery elements. Christine Green provides activities for when the blustery gales prove too much.
Bring me a fiddle, I think I smell smoke
Authors: Henty Neil
Published: May 2014

THE ROMAN emporer Nero, legend has it, asked for his fi ddle one balmy evening. Resting on the soft grass of one of the famous undulating hills that overlooked the metropolis that was ancient Rome, Nero chatted with courtesans and friends, drinking wine and watching the world go by. Below, in the confusing jumble of scattered streets and tumbling buildings, a tragedy of vast proportions and lives wasted was playing out. One that would leave its indelible mark on modern history and the future of the western world. Nero fiddled, while his empire and his people literally went up in smoke.
Protecting children is paramount
Authors: Brierley David
Published: May 2014

The Vetting and Barring Scheme is the government's ultimate response to the Bichard Inquiry report into the failures surrounding the Soham murders. In this review David Brierley details what will change.
Effective roll-out is key to EYFS success
Authors: Bayram Liz
Published: May 2014

The Early Years Foundation Stage, which is due to finally be announced at the end of the month, will be warmly welcomed by the majority of childminders if it is rolled out effectively, says Liz Bayram.
The first among equals
Authors: Sullivan Karen
Published: May 2014

Where a child falls in the family plays a part in defining their personality and even their IQ, so it is worth bearing this in mind when considering the expectations you have for your children, says Karen Sullivan.
Pollocks to that idea!
Authors: Barber Jenny
Published: May 2014

Paint is such a wonderful medium, with its many different consistencies and colours, that children will always love exploring and creating with it. Jenny Barber provides a number of starting points.
Safety for children, confusion for staff
Authors: Pritchard Tricia
Published: May 2014

The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 was introduced to protect children and vulnerable adults, but subsequent legislation has left many childcarers confused, as Tricia Pritchard explains.
Materials
Authors: Allingham Sue
Published: May 2014

Children will have some understanding that the things they use and wear consist of materials with different properties, however, there is plenty of scope for discovery as Sue Allingham explains.
Building professional working relationships
Authors: Simms Margaret
Published: May 2014

Perfecting the art of building effective inter-professional relationships will help you construct the strong team that is needed to provide children with the best start in life, as Margaret Simms explains.
A development culture
Authors: Archibald Alison
Published: May 2014

The training and development of the childcare workforce must be a joined-up initiative coordinating all services in a local authority. Alison Archibald details how one London borough is meeting this challenge.
The great train ride
Authors: Leeper Marion
Published: May 2014

Marion Leeper describes a foundation stage storytelling project that used transport as its starting point, proving that stories for young children do not need to feature just princesses and dragons.
A thirst for knowledge
Authors: Wilson Colin
Published: May 2014

Dehydration is one of the biggest causes of child mortality across the globe and, as Dr Colin Wilson explains, it can also affect a child's ability to learn through tiredness and an inability to concentrate.
Imagine the difference
Authors: Rattigan Marlene
Published: May 2014

Do children lack imagination in settings? Are we providing them with an environment that aids the development of this important faculty? Marlene Rattigan discusses how to encourage creative thinking.
In the care of working mothers
Authors: Poddar Deepak
Published: May 2014

Could a parent-partnership scheme that encourages mothers to work in nurseries have positive benefits for children and their families? Deepak Poddar, from Little Einstein’s, believes that it would.
We must avoid labels
Authors: Wall Kate
Published: May 2014

Without labels the world would be a confusing place to live, however, when working with children we need to be particularly careful of the potential negative consequences of assigning these terms.
SPECIAL TREASURES
Authors: Dixon Peter
Published: May 2014

MRS HARPOON flourished the email, a triumphant smile upon her face. ‘He’s coming thursday week,’ she chortled, without explaining who ‘he’ was. It wasn’t necessary, everyone knew. ‘Actually,’ explained the headteacher, ‘it won’t be Mr Gawlstone himself, it will be one of his Ofsted colleagues, a Ms Utopia, and she will spend the morning in the school and the afternoon briefing myself and the governors. It is an initial day visit.’
Cat, Cole, fiddle, soul
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

This is the first in a series of articles exploring different pairs of nursery rhymes as a resource for activities using all the early learning goals. The first two rhymes combine nonsense words with musical references.
Making gorilla shapes
Authors: Bromley Helen
Published: May 2014

In the second part of her series looking at essential authors that every early years setting should own, Helen Bromley takes a look at the imaginative illustrations and storylines of Anthony Browne.
Cool things on a hot day
Authors: Brunton Pat , Thornton Linda
Published: May 2014

The final article in the Treasurebox series examines the many uses of a Cool Box collection, which is a fantastic resource for challenging children’s thinking about the nature of materials, such as ice.
More gold, less silver
Authors: Merrtens Ruth
Published: May 2014

It is important to remember that children meet and attempt to understand numbers in many different ways, which should be considered when you introduce numeracy learning, as Ruth Merrtens explains.
Jerome Bruner; Lilian Katz
Authors: Martin Estelle
Published: May 2014

This month our pioneers series continues by looking at the work of two educators whose influence is reflected in the resurgence of putting the needs of the child at the heart of early years provision.
Problem solving, reasoning and numeracy
Authors: Beswick Claire
Published: May 2014

Practitioners can build on young children's needs and desire to explore their world and make connections to create children confident with problem solving, reasoning and numeracy.
Boys are back in town
Authors: Fleetham Mike
Published: May 2014

The problem of fully engaging young boys in learning and raising standards is at the forefront of educational research. Understanding how boys learn may be key to providing stimulating provision.
Up and down the hill
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

Both of these rhymes explore themes of movement and are great for physical development activities during the summer months. Related activities include drama, songs and water play.
A healthier future in Scotland
Authors: Munro Will
Published: May 2014

With government figures predicting larger rises in obesity, the Scottish Childminding Association has teamed up with the Food Standards Agency and the Care Commission to address the problem.
Professional builders
Authors: Lee Maureen
Published: May 2014

The number of Early Years Professionals are growing, as is the demand for them from parents, but how are they using their experience to usher in the requirements of the Early Years Foundation Stage?
Being open to parents
Authors: Kirby Dahlian
Published: May 2014

For children to learn and develop in a school or setting they need to feel happy and secure. You can encourage these feelings by welcoming a parent-friendly environment, as Dahlian Kirby explains.
Love and respect
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: May 2014

Introducing a series of activities that cover love and respect can be a complex task. It is, however, essential for a child's personal, social and emotional development. Ailsa Chapman explains.
Winter wonder lands
Authors: Davies Ruth
Published: May 2014

Ruth Davies explains how by exploring a traditional Canadian story, The Long Winter, with young children we can help to develop a greater understanding and knowledge of the world we live in.
And they all fall down
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

The latest pair of rhymes, Humpty Dumpty and Ride a cock horse to Banbury Cross will inspire plenty of activities in all the areas of learning with an emphasis on many aspects of physical development.
Life with Mr and Mrs Large
Authors: Bromley Helen
Published: May 2014

In the last of her current series on essential authors for early years settings, Helen Bromley looks at how Jill Murphy tells stories of the highs and lows of everyday life, using an array of animal characters.
Time to raise your status
Authors: Alfrey Clare , Rearden Denise , Hryniewicz Liz
Published: May 2014

The drive towards professional status should not threaten the early years workforce, it should be seen as part of a long-term plan that will build on, enhance and strengthen their many existing attributes.
Learning mathematics through playful activities
Authors: Clarke Jenni
Published: May 2014

Young children will learn to enjoy mathematics if they are gently introduced to its concepts through playful activities that are offered in practical, everyday and meaningful contexts, says Jenni Clarke.
The colour of creativity
Authors: Brunton Pat , Thornton Linda
Published: May 2014

Colours are all around us in our daily lives. They have an impact on babies and young children from the day they are born, influencing our preferences, our feelings and our emotional wellbeing.
Making music matter
Authors: Day Lin
Published: May 2014

We regularly use elements of music, song and dance in our everyday routines, but many practitioners are unaware of the very significant developmental impact of both listening to, and making, music.
Molly Whuppie's bridge
Authors: Leeper Marion
Published: May 2014

At first glance, a bridge may not seem an obvious starting point for stories and role-play, but Molly Whuppie lends itself to perfectly to storytelling in the great outdoors, as Marion Leeper explains.
You can prove anything with facts and figures
Authors: Henty Neil
Published: May 2014

CHILDMINDER NUMBERS are going down, but the number of places the remaining childminders are off ering is going up. Th is apparent contradiction was arrived at by Ofsted recently, using a brand new way of calculating such things. So, what did we find out? On the ground, out in the field, are there fewer people doing more, and if so, what can be done to reverse this trend?
Vetting the barring scheme
Authors: Brierley David
Published: May 2014

The Vetting and Barring Scheme is scheduled to open for registration for new entrants from July next year. David Brierley, solicitor for Voice, examines the process from an employer's viewpoint.
Deliver better outcomes
Authors: Lee Maureen , Cox Anna
Published: May 2014

In this section over the course of the next 12 months, Best Practice Network will feature a number of case studies that will recognise the many and varied benefits of achieving professional status.
SPECIAL TREASURES
Authors: Dixon Peter
Published: May 2014

‘WELL, WHAT’S new in Blood and Tumble magazine this month?’ teased Mrs Lagoon from her usual corner of the staff room. ‘Any more terrible tales of phonic book accidents or tadpoles spreading verrucas?’
Polly in the kitchen
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

These two traditional rhymes feature characters called Polly. The article explores different activities across the early learning goals with a special emphasis on personal, social and emotional development.
A game of two halves
Authors: Day Lin
Published: May 2014

The human brain is divided into two hemispheres and although they both work together to process information and to perform tasks, each person's personality will depend upon which half is dominant.
Autumn
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: May 2014

Marking the change from warm sunny days to the cold, dark days of winter, autumn is a wonderful time of year, with so many changes happening in the natural world for children to investigate.
A good start in Sweden
Authors: Wiltshire Monica
Published: May 2014

Early education in Sweden has often been held up as a benchmark for best practice, but how is the system set up to provide the best start in life? Monica Wiltshire shares her experience of one setting.
Boys will always be boys
Authors: Taylor Kath
Published: May 2014

It has been firmly established that boys have some unique ways of learning. Kath Taylor explains how one project set out to take advantage, in particular, of their preference for the outdoor environment.
Separation is not the answer
Authors: House Richard
Published: May 2014

Once again, the reporting of research offers a warped view of reality, resulting in an economy-driven demand for mothers to return to work at the earliest opportunity, regardless of what is best for children.
Auditory verbal therapy
Authors: Lee-Potter Emma
Published: May 2014

Emma Lee-Potter investigates a parent-centred therapy approach that has been helping young deaf children to learn to communicate and make sense of the amplified sounds of hearing aids and implants.
Starting with the child
Authors: Beckley Pat , Elvidge Karen , Hendry Helen
Published: May 2014

Skilled practitioners will use a number of different strategies to facilitate children's development, and will be able to adapt their provision to make use of unplanned experiences to foster learning.
Come dance with me
Authors: Youngman Angela
Published: May 2014

Despite forming an essential element of the Early Years Foundation Stage the very thought of including dance sessions in their provision fills most practitioners with dread, despite needing no prior experience.
Improving the status of men
Authors: Lee Maureen
Published: May 2014

This month our focus falls on the subject of men working in the early years. It combines the story of a recently assessed male early years professional with the MA research of an EYPS assessor.
Men and motivation
Authors: Kurowski Andre
Published: May 2014

Encouraging more men to work in the childcare workforce normally focuses on issues of pay, status and conditions, however, motivational factors may play a far bigger role in determining career choice.
The future wellbeing of childhood
Authors: Kornberger Horst
Published: May 2014

Our children are being exposed to unprecedented levels of media intrusion into their lives, passively accepting and internalising often inappropriate visual experiences. The future of childhood is at stake.
Dinosaur underpants
Authors: Sargent Marianne
Published: May 2014

In the second article of her story bag series, Marianne Sargent uses Claire Freedman and Ben Cort's classic picture book, Dinosaurs Love Underpants, as inspiration for practical activities and role-play.
Planning for the real New Year
Authors: Tanuku Purnima
Published: May 2014

Effective planning for the new financial year is important to the success of any business, but with strained revenues and increasing costs, a business plan and controlled budget is crucial for settings.
SPECIAL TREASURES
Authors: Dixon Peter
Published: May 2014

MRS FOOTFINGER grinned as she flipped through her photos of ‘Special Treasures in the snow’.
A sign of future success
Authors: Hill Geraldine
Published: May 2014

Learning to sign can help children to communicate more effectively and can aid later language skills. Geraldine Hill introduces a programme that can be used in conjunction with the Montessori method.
Single status and job evaluation
Authors: Mahon Darren
Published: May 2014

Many members of the early years workforce have been affected by the Single Status agreement, both positively and negatively. Voice: the union for education professionals wants to hear your experiences.
With or without status
Authors: Reardon Denise , Hryniewicz Liz
Published: May 2014

Practitioners may still feel they lack a professional identity. However, they do have the satisfaction of knowing how far they have come, and the great things that they have achieved along the way.
A party up high in the sky
Authors: Leeper Marion
Published: May 2014

The Brazilian folktale, Party in the sky, which involves an adventurous frog trying to gatecrash a party for birds-only, perfectly matches the ups and downs, jumps and bumps of learning in the early years.
Natural comparisons
Authors: Bennett Elaine
Published: May 2014

One of the best ways to develop interest in numeracy is to appeal to a child's natural sense of curiosity and to engage them in the outdoor world, where they can make use of a wonderful array of resources.
Childminders, it is time for action
Authors: Fletcher Andrew
Published: May 2014

There has never been a better time for home-based childcarers to have a major influence on their profession moving forward, with National Childminding Week following the May 6 general election.
Time to become a flexible friend
Authors: Tanuku Purnima
Published: May 2014

With the Code of Practice for the delivery of the 15-hour flexible childcare entitlement now published, Purnima Tanuku explains why it is so vital that nurseries get involved in shaping provider agreements.
Documenting creativity
Authors: Evans Sarah Jenkinson
Published: May 2014

Not everyone would associate the use of documentation as a means of enhancing creative learning, however, as Sarah Jenkinson Evans explains, it is vital for understanding children's ideas and thoughts.
Food fuel for the brain
Authors: Day Lin
Published: May 2014

As our knowledge of the functioning and development of the brain increases, so does our appreciation of what young children, and practitioners, need to improve concentration levels, motivation and mood.
Ruthless suppression of the creative mind
Authors: Henty Neil
Published: May 2014

WE HAVE a coalition government whose education department so far seems intent on giving more ‘power to the people’. Free schools, academy status, teachers being given more freedom to teach (sounds good on paper, wonder what the reality will be like?) and other nods to greater freedom and more chances to wrestle free from the tight grip of central control. These are all positive ideas and many of you reading this will hope that the same freedoms are extended to the early years sector – although we do have to hope that greater freedoms are not bought by funding cuts and a haphazard approach to standards.
The new politics of childhood
Authors: House Richard
Published: May 2014

Minister for Children and Families, Sarah Teather MP, has made her first statement outlining a vision for early years care and education with an attempt to distance the coalition from past government failures.
We must always celebrate quality
Authors: Tanuku Purnima
Published: May 2014

Purnima Tanuku explains why early years settings and practitioners need to stand up and shout about what they deliver in terms of quality and services for the children and families of this country.
No fear of getting it wrong
Authors: Cameron John
Published: May 2014

Recent cases have highlighted, once again, the need for vigilance and courage in safeguarding children in our settings. Early years educators can rely on the services of the NSPCC Helpline if they need support.
Adventures with food
Authors: Thomas Lucy
Published: May 2014

There has been a great deal of media publicity focusing on school meals and obesity, but the key to encouraging healthy eating is for children to engage with food in a non-pressured environment.
The silence of anxiety
Authors: Doyle Phoebe
Published: May 2014

Children with selective mutism, which is commonly mistaken for shyness, can cause great concern for parents. Phoebe Doyle explores ways that practitioners can help with this complex anxiety disorder.
The problem with men
Authors: Dallal Jo
Published: May 2014

Do we want men working in childcare, let alone more of them? Maybe, there is a case for saying that we do not. This article will examine the benefits, challenges and realities of a representative workforce.
Problem solving parents
Authors: Bennett Elaine
Published: May 2014

Parents who have children moving from nursery to key stage 1 will often ask questions about their child's ability to read and write, but not many will be as concerned about their mathematical skills.
Take another little piece of my heart
Authors: Henty Neil
Published: May 2014

COMPREHENSIVE SPENDING REVIEW. Three words that should strike fear into the hearts of every early years worker, for while some services have been backed with coalition-spoken words, others will find the rug pulled from under their feet and sold, along with the baby and the bath water. We have recently heard of the possibility of the scrapping of the National Year of Speech, Language and Communication, which was due to make an extremely positive impact in 2011. Th is visionary initiative designed to really make a difference to children's lives, will now be subject to this mystical ‘spending review’ that conjures images of the chancellor picking ‘winning’ projects out of a yellow and blue tombola – or worse, to paraphrase a popular comedy show… ‘I'd like funding for the National Year of Communi….’ ‘Computer says nooo.’
Letters to the editor
Authors: Newstead Shelly
Published: May 2014

Research has shown that today's children are less easily able to play outside and are, therefore, more likely to spend the majority of time being supervised by adults. Th is can result in children's play being changed or curtailed to suit adult ideas and ideals about what constitutes ‘good’ play. While this is not necessarily always a bad thing, it can mean that children are less likely to be able to follow their own interests and ideas and to be able to explore their world in their own terms.
Building blocks of ADHD
Authors: Day Lin
Published: May 2014

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a commonly diagnosed, but much misunderstood condition that affects more boys than girls. Dr Lin Day discusses myths, causes, symptoms and coping strategies.
More than dental health
Authors: Matthews Roger
Published: May 2014

Roger Matthews discusses the importance of effective dental care and how nursery carers and early years practitioners can help to keep children and their parents smiling right through their childhood.
More than just a phase
Authors: Jones Hazel
Published: May 2014

Hazel Jones explores how the initial implementation of The Foundation Phase in Wales is impacting on how young children learn and the various issues it has raised for the practitioners who support them.
There is no gravity in space
Authors: Methven Joanna
Published: May 2014

Joanna Methven’s reception class unlocked a whole new world of language when a space-themed project developed from children's discussions that were based upon a popular television series.
Hear a story in the dark
Authors: Leeper Marion
Published: May 2014

What is the best time of day for nurturing literacy development? Bedtime, of course. Time to snuggle up with a story, to reflect on the day's events and to discuss how the dark makes the world look so different.
Out and about in February
Authors: Bromley Helen
Published: May 2014

This 12-part series off ers a month-by-month guide for practitioners working outdoors with young children, that will support them and help you celebrate all seasons equally, whatever the weather!
The role of support staff
Authors: Jones Hazel
Published: May 2014

Hazel Jones examines the important role played by classroom assistants in improving standards of learning and teaching in Wales, and in helping practitioners better implement the Foundation Phase.
Rhetoric versus policy
Authors: House Richard
Published: May 2014

Early signs from the coalition government suggested that early years professionals would be freed from much of the bureaucracy that mired Labour's term in office, however, will the reality prove otherwise?
The path to knowledge
Authors: Lee Maureen
Published: May 2014

The postgraduate 12-month full-time Early Years Professional Status pathway, designed for people without a background in the sector, has come in for some unfair criticism, as Maureen Lee explains.
Lighting the fire within
Authors: Moseley Paul
Published: May 2014

An essential part of the Forest School experience involves the safe use of fire, an activity that despite the caution of some practitioners, provides a vast array of life skills, competencies and knowledge.
A manifesto for childminding
Authors: Simpson Maggie
Published: May 2014

The Scottish Childminding Association is calling on the government to recognise the important role played by home-based childcarers ahead of the forthcoming 2011 Scottish Parliamentary Elections.
Future meeting places
Authors: Moss Peter
Published: May 2014

Peter Moss examines the relationships that exist between early childhood and compulsory education, and explains why the ‘readying’ and ‘partnership’ models might be superseded by the ‘meeting place’.
Working with intelligences
Authors: Lamond Tess
Published: May 2014

Rather than adopt a teaching style of ‘one size fits all’, we might better serve the children in our care by accepting that they possess more than one type of intelligence and that each can inform our provision.
Laying the table for good food
Authors: Pritchard Tricia
Published: May 2014

Healthy eating, nutrition and rising obesity levels in young children have been on the early years agenda for a number of years, so could a recent report spark confusion rather than good practice?
Mapping treasure trails
Authors: Sargent Marianne
Published: May 2014

The educational approach of the pre-schools of Reggio Emilia encourages the use of documentation as a part of the provocation process, not just for assessment but also to facilitate reflective thought.
Big society managers
Authors: Jefferies Tina
Published: May 2014

The government has placed a big emphasis on collective social responsibility and collaboration, but how can you incorporate these principles into your relationship with the staff in your setting?
Supermarket childcare
Authors: Moss Peter
Published: May 2014

Peter Moss explains why we would best serve the sector by ‘resisting the dictatorship of no alternative’ by debating whether early childcare settings are to be more like supermarkets or democratic spaces.
Shift workers face childcare gap
Authors: Shukla Anand
Published: May 2014

A report has highlighted the real gap in childcare provision designed to meet the needs of parents who work atypical hours, a situation that adversely affects employment chances in this weak labour market.
Reading test will add to decline
Authors: Ellyatt Wendy
Published: May 2014

The government's desire to impose a standalone, context-free reading test in Year 1 goes against the advice of much of the sector, and threatens to undermine pedagogical diversity and creativity.
Three Billy Goats Gruff
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: May 2014

In this month's article we continue with the traditional fairytale theme by looking at starting points for practical and creative activities based on another favourite story; Three Billy Goats Gruff.
Finally up and running
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: May 2014

The second article in our series that looks at building a children's centre from scratch, focuses on the realities of moving into the dedicated space amidst the changing political and financial climate.
Fantasy and creative play
Authors: Sargent Marianne
Published: May 2014

Provocations by their very nature are open-ended, which is why they are excellent when trying to encourage creative thought through imaginative play. Traditional tales are an ideal starting point.
Foundation framework
Authors: Henty Neil
Published: May 2014

The government has released its draft revised Early Years Foundation Stage, and while it build on much that was good in the Tickell Review, there are some worrying signs for the sector that need addressing.
The rules of attachment
Authors: Dukes Chris , Smith Maggie
Published: May 2014

For children entering early years settings who do not have secure attachments with primary caregivers, behaviour itself will often become a means of communication and a way of getting what they need.
Politicisation of childhood
Authors: Ellyatt Wendy
Published: May 2014

The government's response to the Tickell Review of the Early Years Foundation Stage has left many in the sector with deep concerns, particularly at some of the language and concepts that are used.
The Three Little Pigs
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: May 2014

In this month's article we continue with the traditional fairytale theme by looking at starting points for practical and creative activities based on another favourite story; The Three Little Pigs.
Pooling your resources
Authors: Cliff Tracey
Published: May 2014

Counting is both a physical and mental skill, one which has its own language and vocabulary that can developed through collaborative enquiry and sensitive adult support, both in the setting and at home.
The fruits of our labour
Authors: Bromley Helen
Published: May 2014

This 12-part series offers a month-by-month guide for practitioners working outdoors with young children, supporting them and helping you celebrate, whatever the weather – this month, September.
A trip to the museum
Authors: Youngman Angela
Published: May 2014

Museums are no longer the drab glass cabinet-filled vaults of dusty old objects they once were, indeed many are openly embracing early years settings and offering interactive and inspirational experiences.
Plus ça change: School readiness
Authors: House Richard
Published: May 2014

The age our children start formal schooling in the UK has long been a topic of debate that government has rarely been willing to involve itself in. Now, more than ever, this status quo needs to be challenged.
The journey to excellence
Authors: Imray Sharon
Published: May 2014

We often hear of best practice and of settings being awarded an outstanding inspection, but we rarely explore the human side of such achievement, the drives and ethos of staff teams to constantly improve.
Phonics test could alienate a million
Authors: Beardshaw Virginia
Published: May 2014

MA Education Ltd, St Jude's Church, Dulwich Road, London, SE24 0PB. neil.henty@markallengroup.com
The developing brain
Authors: Day Lin
Published: May 2014

The growth and development of the human brain generally follows set patterns, although timescales will vary, but it is still vital that we provide activities that stimulate and strengthen neural pathways.
Successful additions
Authors: Jones Michael
Published: May 2014

From the tips of your fingers, to the tips of your tongue. Michael Jones examines a project that has successfully used sign language to help young children understand and use mathematical vocabulary.
Woodworking wonders
Authors: Moorhouse Pete
Published: May 2014

The thought of introducing woodworking will leave many non-specialist staff in fear, however, it is easier and safer than you may think and has great benefits to offer young children's development.
Personalised learning
Authors: Smith Kim , Sanderson Lindsey , Jardine Lucy
Published: May 2014

Provocations, based on children's interests, are perfect for taking learning further and for providing opportunities to learn new skills. Turning the journey into a story aids future planning and home links.
The point of home visits
Authors: Kiely Teresa
Published: May 2014

Teresa Kiely investigates whether there is still value in using the traditional ‘home visit’ as a pivot, to engage families in a joint children's centre and school nursery programme of readiness and transition?
Professional differences
Authors: Francis Jo
Published: May 2014

The mix of peoples working in the early years encompasses those with a vast array of practical experiences, academic qualifications, beliefs, goals and professionalism, but what marks one professional from another?
Unforgettable, inspirational
Authors: Baker Sarah
Published: May 2014

MA Education Ltd, St Jude's Church, Dulwich Road, London, SE24 0PB. neil.henty@markallengroup.com
Peer power making waves
Authors: Lewis Jane
Published: May 2014

A children's centre based in Gosport, Hampshire decided to tackle poor achievement levels in children by using the Positive Deviance method of motivating communities to find local solutions to deep-rooted social problems.
Moving to make marks
Authors: Blant Jane
Published: May 2014

Early attempts at writing are strongly linked with movement, proprioception and muscle development in young children, which makes it vital that our environments and provision promote physical literacy.
No such thing as ordinary
Authors: Gascoyne Sue
Published: May 2014

In this time of economic uncertainty, it is reassuring to know that even the humblest object can be a source of open-ended play, discovery and learning for the young child making sense of the world.
A problem to be solved
Authors: Stevens Judith , Skinner Carole
Published: May 2014

Although the revised foundation stage has dropped the explicit name check, problem solving remains at the very core of the mathematics specific area of learning, something that adults can help to model and encourage.
The fabric of a good story
Authors: Leeper Marion
Published: May 2014

The language of material is linked to the way we talk about stories, which means we are on safe ground when using recycled material, cloth and felt to produce storymats and story islands to foster storytelling.
Spiritual development
Authors: Brown Paula
Published: May 2014

The 2008 foundation stage made explicit the need to nurture a child's spiritual development, and while the revised version does not make this as obvious, it is inherent in the framework, and in early learning.
Clear, ordered expression
Authors: Finlayson Keri
Published: May 2014

The ability to recognize sequences and to order events is essential. This seven-part series explores ways in which practitioners can encourage the development of these skills across each area of learning.
‘Little Big Bang: Creativity in Somerset’
Authors: Young Susan
Published: May 2014

Not only is involvement in creative activities deeply enjoyable and rewarding, it also helps to develop important dispositions and abilities, especially when it forms a permanent part of long-term provision.
Dances of conversation
Authors: Jones Michael
Published: May 2014

This article explores the first steps that parent and child take together in the ‘dance of conversation’, an interaction that includes Parentese, which forms the foundation for children's social use of language.
What we can learn from…: Chinese New Year
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: May 2014

This month, we focus on the wonderful, colourful and worldwide celebration of Chinese New Year, which is an important time for families and for fresh starts, settling of debts, food and festivities.
Culinary investigators
Authors: Chalmers Debbie
Published: May 2014

Exploring the topic of food with children offers a wide variety of opportunities for discussion, creative play and imagination, and can be an excellent way of bringing together families of different cultures.
Children's lives in music
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

This new series will explore how music through history has been used to describe different themes. The first article will look at a topic immediately relevant to the early years, children and their lives.
Singing with the fishes
Authors: Rivolta Heidi
Published: May 2014

In this series we are exploring the use of traditional French nursery rhymes and songs to introduce action words – this month, we focus on Les petits poissons dans l'eau [The little fish in the water].
Ambiguous makes sense
Authors: Bryce-Clegg Alistair
Published: May 2014

The process of creativity involves a great deal of thought, and so an inspiring environment also needs to be one that stimulates thinking and innovation, and what better way than to leave things open-ended.
Real natural learning
Authors: Long Hilary
Published: May 2014

Outdoor learning has been a key part of early years provision for a while, but how can we ensure that we are providing truly essential and immersive experiences that really allow children to be ‘in’ nature.
Singing for your supper
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

The fifth article in our series, exploring how music describes different topics, takes a look at food. There are many well-known songs that can be used to inspire fun activities, across all areas of the early years.
Starting points for talk
Authors: Stevens Judith
Published: May 2014

Every Child a Talker was very successful at identifying children at risk of language delay and supporting their development, and despite the loss of funding, many excellent projects continue the good work.
Plans for shape and size
Authors: Lineld Rachel Sparks , Coltman Penny
Published: May 2014

Activities designed to introduce children to the concept of dierent ‘shapes’ will also provide many mathematical opportunities for them to count, to measure and, in particular, to explore size and space.
Anna's Amazing Multi-Coloured Glasses
Authors: Delgado Maria Rodriguez
Published: May 2014

Maria Rodriguez Delgado, English co-ordinator at Our Lady and St Joseph Catholic Primary School, Lymington, Hampshire, explains how to use this book with a year 1 class. Share Anna's adventure as she puts on a pair of magical spectacles
Make family life better
Authors: Rhodes Liz
Published: May 2014

Recent programmes on television have highlighted the plight of many parents. They simply do not know how to manage their children. The BBC series Little Angels and Channel 4's Supernanny have followed similar ‘before and after’ formats, and what is immediately obvious is that the ‘problem children’ are much happier when they have been subjected to routine and discipline.
Science at work
Authors: Andrews Sue
Published: May 2014

When children see how science works in the real world they are given a fresh vision of the subject. A teacher in the North West is working with industry - and sowing the seeds for the scientists of the future
Thoughts from abroad
Authors: Steadman Liz
Published: May 2014

Liz Steadman retired from teaching this summer and set off on a trip round the world to get used to her new life. While travelling to Australia, Liz sent us these thoughts on the changes she has seen in the course of her career
Write reading wrongs
Authors: Merrell Christine , Tymms Peter
Published: May 2014

The death of dyslexia is much publicised. Christine Merrell and Peter Tymms discuss research that aims to identify reading problems with computer-adaptive assessments
Testing, testing
Authors: Hindmarch Sonali
Published: May 2014

The beginning of each new academic year can feel like a clean slate. It is literally a tabula rasa in each classroom, poised for the chalk marks of a new year of knowledge, learning and, increasingly, testing. Last year's exam hangover has almost been slept off. But not quite.
A trick or a treat?
Authors: Dunn Carrie
Published: May 2014

Schools often say there is no place for Halloween in the classroom and that it should be banned-not so, says Carrie Dunn
The cross rabbit
Authors: Glover Jane
Published: May 2014

Different stories by the same author. Narrative focus. Cross-curricular link: Famous people, history
Reading corner
Authors: Flynn Amanda , McManus Lauren , Burton Sarah , Pye Emma , Tindale Rebecca , Tindale Rebecca
Published: May 2014

This enchanting book captures the journey made by a panda and her cub in a battle for survival. The powerful illustrations depict the characteristics and striking features of a panda as well as their typical habitat while following them through their journey.
I think therefore I am
Authors: Cosh Jackie
Published: May 2014

Teaching philosophy may bring to mind images of children bored as they learn about Socrates and Plato but the reality is much more inspiring, says Jackie Cosh
Happy Father's Day
Authors: Hammond Paula
Published: May 2014

The third Sunday in June is Father's Day, which is becoming an increasingly popular annual celebration throughout the UK
Reading corner
Authors: Herlingshaw Sonia , Foxton Rebecca , Mackie Dawn , Flynn Maria , Black Chelsea
Published: May 2014

This month's reviews are by Durham University BA(Ed) students
Looking at minibeasts
Authors: Cruickshank Sarah
Published: May 2014

National Insect Week falls between June 23 and 29 and is the perfect time to focus on some work on minibeasts and their environments, says Sarah Cruickshank
A midsummer dream
Authors: Youngman Angela
Published: May 2014

Fantasy is integral to the development of children's imagination. Angela Youngman explains how to use it in the classroom
Playing it safe
Authors: Elkin Susan
Published: May 2014

As a relative newcomer, are you eager to try something different in the classroom or dread making mistakes? The answer may be yes to both questions, says Keith Bartley
Speak and listen. Read and write
Authors: Hoad Elizabeth
Published: May 2014

Learning objectives Speak and listen for a wide range of purposes in different contexts Adding percussion to their own stories Learning objectives Read and write for a range of purposes on paper and on screen Animals represented in music
Better access for disabled children after school
Authors: Lepkowska Dorothy
Published: May 2014

Parents with disabled children are to get easier access to childcare through a £35million scheme announced by Ministers.
It's all about location, location, location
Authors: Rhodes Liz
Published: May 2014

What makes a school ′good′? Shouldn′t every area have one? Liz Rhodes discusses
Is it really good to talk?
Authors: Youngman Angela
Published: May 2014

Angela Youngman weighs up the positives and negatives to giving children the freedom to talk during lessons
Are we a fair society?
Authors: Mill Patsy
Published: May 2014

For all our affluence, we live in a society as materially unequal as any in history. But promulgate the belief that anyone can ′have it all′. What effects does this have?
Smiles for miles and miles
Authors: Dabel John
Published: May 2014

Everyone in the world owns one but some people never wear them. I cannot be bought, begged, borrowed, or stolen. I am a powerful weapon that can break ice. I cost nothing but give much. One size fits all and I am great exercise. I am a universal welcome and I am a curve that sets everything straight. The world always looks brighter from behind me and I can light up a day in a second. When I burst I erupt into a laugh. What am I? A smile.
The second world war
Authors: Youngman Angela
Published: May 2014

Angela Youngman explains how to help young children understand what life was like during this period of history
No such thing as a free lunch
Authors: Hindmarch Sonali
Published: May 2014

Free school meals are currently means-tested but the Department for Children, Schools and Families wants that to change.
Whatever the weather
Authors: Narraway Alison
Published: May 2014

Alison Narraway explains how to have year-long fun with the topic of weather. A subject all children are interested in.
Faced with difference
Authors: Mill Patsy
Published: May 2014

Though we think of them as rare, facial disfigurements are not uncommon. What′s the best way of handling the issues facial difference raises?
Sharks and fishes!
Authors: Prince Jean
Published: May 2014

Every school develops their own favourite games but here are a few ideas that you can use to add to your collection. Once you have tried out different games and activities, you could print out brief details of the most popular ones and laminate them. These are handy to keep around year after year, or you may even pass them between colleagues. It is a good idea to identify the curriculum links on the back of each game. Have them readily available so that any staff or volunteers working outside can refer to them.
Social sporting events
Authors: Andrews Crispin
Published: May 2014

Regular exercise improves behaviour-so the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA) investigation into the effects of PE and sport on children′s attitudes and conduct in school has found.
Classroom reputations
Authors: Thornton Stephanie
Published: May 2014

Reputations matter, even in early childhood. What can teachers do to manage reputations in the classroom?
Partnerships matter
Authors: Griffin Sue
Published: May 2014

In our second article on partnerships with parents, Sue Griffin reflects on why it is important to focus on this aspect, especially in reception or year 1
The Montessori approach
Authors: Fidler Wendy
Published: May 2014

This article explores how children with special educational needs can be assisted using Montessori methods
Looking at your career
Authors: Adams Margaret
Published: May 2014

It′s important to look ahead when you think about your CPD. If you don′t, you could be missing out on valuable development opportunities