Yoga can be a fun and playful way for young children to explore movement and discover what their bodies can do. Simple poses and movements encourage children to stretch, reach, bend, balance and hold different positions, helping to develop core strength, stability, balance, co-ordination and body awareness.
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A clear vision gives everyone in your nursery a shared sense of purpose and direction. It helps your team understand not only what you want to achieve for children and families, but why it matters. When practitioners understand and feel part of the vision, it is more likely to be reflected in everyday interactions, decision-making and practice.
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For Meadowbank Day Nursery in Monmouthshire, achieving NDNA Millie’s Mark was about more than gaining a quality endorsement. It was an opportunity to build on an already strong safety culture and show families that every member of staff is confident, prepared and ready to respond when children need help.
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Benedict’s Law is a set of national measures designed to improve allergy safety in schools. Currently, these measures apply to schools in England, while campaigning continues to extend into Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
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Difficult conversations are an inevitable part of managing an early years setting. Whether discussing development, behaviour, attendance, well-being or a concern raised by a parent, the aim should always be to keep the child at the centre while maintaining a positive partnership with families.
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This sensory harvest tray activity is a wonderful way for babies and young children to explore the sights, smells, textures and sounds of autumn. Using a range of natural harvest-inspired materials, children can investigate at their own pace while developing their senses, curiosity, communication and physical skills through hands-on, playful exploration.
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Are you fed up of trying to keep on top of employment law changes on top of the consistent ratios, recruitment, and rising costs of running a nursery? It’s hard to know what you need to know and what you need to action. We’ve partnered with Citation, a trusted provider of HR, Employment Law and Health & Safety support, so that you, our members, stay compliant and keep your teams protected.
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This simple activity which encourages children to explore their emotions and expressions through play. Using mirrors, children can observe their own faces, copy different expressions and begin to recognise how our faces can show how we are feeling. The activity also supports children's confidence, communication and self-awareness in a playful and engaging way.
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Toothbrushing can sometimes feel like a challenge, especially for young children who are still getting used to the routine. Nurseries can help make brushing a positive and enjoyable experience by keeping it playful, predictable and encouraging. Small changes and lots of positive reinforcement can help reluctant brushers develop healthy habits that support their oral health.
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Our Director of Quality and Training, Stella Ziolkowski and I visited Smarties Nursery in Rastrick, West Yorkshire to meet their staff and children. Smarties like many other nurseries across the UK benefit from holding the Millie’s Mark accreditation. This means that all their staff who work with children are trained in paediatric first aid.
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