Children’s brains are hardwired to engage with the natural world, and unless they are exposed to such relevant environments on a regular basis, we risk denying them the opportunities they need for optimal brain development.
Young children build up an understanding of the world around them through a variety of play activities. This includes the use of digital technology. It is important, therefore, that all children become confident with this media in early years settings, especially those who do not have access to technology at home.
It is vital for children’s optimal development that they have opportunities to take developmentally-appropriate risks in play. Being able to do so and experience the related benefits are crucial aspects of every child’s development. An environment that is risk-friendly is the best context for this to take place in. The pointers below will help to […]
Speech and Language Therapist Wendy Lee shares with us her advice and suggestions for checking out children’s early speech and language skills.
Every outside classroom is alive with stories just waiting for our children to become part of the drama.If we pause in the outdoor spaces of our contexts and look closely we will notice how they invite us and our children to become part of their stories.
Subitising is a term that was coined by the theorist Piaget and defined the ability to instantaneously recognise the number of objects in a small group without the need to count them. An example often used to explain this, is to think of a die – we immediately recognise the number of dots without having […]
Sensory Stones enable children to have sensory experiences by experimenting with raised and indented shapes and patterns. Here, author and play specialist Wendy Usher shares her ideas on introducing the stones into a setting and some sensory play activities.
We’re Going on a Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen is a firm favourite for many settings. In this blog, independent literacy consultant Jane Bunting, explores the idea of the bear coming to visit…
There are a huge number of bear stories. Here are a few bear necessities for any book corner. The children will have their own favourites too.
Get the most out of our Phonics Pebbles with these great ideas and activities from teacher and consultant, Christine Barker.