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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Teaching children about recycling will support them to develop environmentally friendly habits as they grow. This activity will challenge children to think about reusing and repurposing everyday items, encouraging them to think creatively about how objects can be given a new purpose rather than being thrown away.
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September is the time you can join in with the recycling awareness week. Recycling is a great way to support the environment and these top tips are to support the recycling, reuse and repurposing of everyday materials, with practical ideas that can be incorporated into nursery routines and activities, helping to reduce waste and make the most of the resources already available.
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Help children recognise and celebrate differences in positive ways, from hair and skin colour to languages, families, abilities, interests, cultures and traditions. Create an environment where children feel proud of who they are, see themselves reflected in their surroundings and learn to appreciate the wonderful differences in others.
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World Afro Day is a Global Day of Celebration and liberation for Afro hair. The day aims to challenge negative attitudes and help people understand and appreciate the diversity of Afro hair and identity. This my hair and me activity provides a wonderful opportunity to explore the idea that everyone's hair is different, and every type of hair is beautiful.
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