You teach more maths than you think
Snack time, tidy up and the water tray are full of mathematics. How to spot it, talk about it and extend children's thinking with confidence.
Category: Child Development & Learning
Why does one child keep throwing things? It might be a schema
Throwing, wrapping, spinning and carrying things about are often schemas, not misbehaviour. How to spot play patterns, plan for them and explain them to parents.
In-the-moment planning without losing the plot
In-the-moment planning means noticing and responding to children's real interests as they happen. What it is, what it isn't and how to introduce it well.
Why a crate of odds and ends beats a shelf of new toys
Open ended materials turn crates, corks and pinecones into rich learning. How loose parts play works, where to source materials cheaply and how to keep it safe.
Making outdoor play more than garden time
Outdoor play supports all seven areas of learning when it's planned with intent. Practical ways to move beyond garden time, whatever your space or weather.
Growing greener: small sustainability wins for your setting this summer
Reduce waste, cut bills and grow children's love of the natural world without eco anxiety. Simple sustainability ideas any nursery can start this summer.
How children learn matters as much as what they learn
Playing and exploring, active learning and creating and thinking critically describe how children learn. Practical ways to observe, plan and share the characteristics.
The quiet child at the dough table
How children's speech and language develop, how to check a child is on track, and what to do when communication isn't coming as expected.
The child who chats all the way home but goes quiet at nursery
Some children talk freely at home yet stay silent at nursery. How to recognise selective mutism, take the pressure off and support speech step by step.
Talking about gender with the under-fives
Young children are forming their sense of gender now. How practitioners can handle questions calmly, challenge stereotypes and support every child and family with confidence.