Watching chicks hatch and being part of their care not only allows children to experience a real wonder of nature, it opens up numerous possibilities for conversations, including: how life begins, how babies grow across the animal kingdom, and caring for those we love around us, and in the wider world.
Pancake Day falls on Tuesday 1st March and provides you and your children a wonderful opportunity to think about the new season and the changing world.
The Valentine's Day themed activities here are designed to show children the importance of their personal choices, and to encourage children to express their feelings, while developing friendships and working cooperatively.
On the topic of children's mental health, Claire Hewson shares some ideas to help children to understand and manage their emotions, and begin to empathize with others.
Karen Hart talks to children's author Kat Patrick and finds out how her latest picture book is all about encouraging young girls to not be afraid to express their feelings – as loudly as possible!
While technology is not specifically covered in the revised EYFS it will feature in many everyday activities in your provision. In this first of a new series, Claire Hewson links Ipads and Bee-Bots to learning co-operatively.
Rhyme is a fantastic medium for inspiring children to engage with narrative and develop vocabulary. Get into your own poetry rhythm by checking out these activities.
This article is the third in the series exploring mindfulness moments, linking children's physical movements to self awareness and self control, while also practising breathing and meditation.
Following on from last month's article on breathing techniques, now is the time to move on to basic meditation skills. Observe how quickly children find their focus, using natural materials as props to articulate their thoughts and feelings.
While children have a natural ‘mindfulness’ this can be developed to help them sustain focus and self-awareness. In the first of a new series, Judith Harries provides a practical guide to breathing techniques which promote well-being.
Whatever the circumstances of a house move – planned or unplanned – it can be a confusing and stressful time for children. Claire Hewson outlines ways to explore the subject while making children feel more confident about the transition.
The theme for this year's Anti-Bullying Week in the UK is 'United against Bullying'. Check out Judith Harries' activity ideas to tie in and watch the video of the charity single put together by CBeebies' star Andy Day.
National Tree Week, which runs from 28 November to 6 December, is a great opportunity to discuss the importance of trees. Support children to identify different varieties, express their own ideas and listen sensitively to others.
Take a look at this month’s practical supplement which has a wealth of seasonal ideas to support children’s learning through play. Use our expert pointers on the Characteristics of Effective Leaning to create meaningful observations and enhance your knowledge of each individual child.
Hilary White suggests ways to use art, song and discussion as a starting point for celebrating our differences and exploring togetherness. Children will enjoy creating a picture of their friend and talking about what they like about them.
This second in a four-part series focuses on the Specific areas of learning, flagging up new points for reflection and providing a practical guide to support every day best practice in your setting.
Tune into children’s interests and extend their learning with our seasonal step-by-step practical activities.
In the first of a three-part guide, Nicola Watson focuses on the statutory changes to the Prime areas of learning and provides advice on how to positively implement them in your practice.
Judith Harries suggests books and simple activities to support children's understanding of how the families of their friends may be different to their own.
Following on from his bestselling book The Hug, author Eoin McLaughlin has written this genuine book for our time, talking to young children about social distancing. Find out more about how to share this book!
The books of Rosie Wellesley are a wonderful starting point to explore the rewards of being helpful, doing chores together and sharing precious things with others.
Tom Knight's Jimmy Finnigan's Wild Wood Band is a great book to pick up at this time to explore ideas of community spirit and social awareness.
National Pet Month is all about raising awareness of responsible pet ownership through education, celebrating the benefits of pets and encouraging fundraising for the nation’s needy pets.
A rainy day in doors doesn’t have to mean a day stuck in front of the TV or computer. There are lots of activities to keep children occupied – and still learning. Painting, baking, and other arts and crafts are just some of the great ways to boost their creativity. Here are some activities that are perfect for wet weather days.
