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146 articles in this category

The Fish Who Could Wish: using a storybook for activities

by Martine Horvath on January 18, 2011

Martine Horvath suggests some lively activities based around the very popular storybook.

The Multi-sensory Approach

by Juliet Mickelburgh on December 9, 2010

This is the third in a series of articles examining current research into the way children learn and how this can be applied in the early years setting. The multi-sensory model links long-held beliefs about learning with the everyday experiences of y…

The Musical Lives of Infants – a route to academic study

by Robert Heath on January 31, 2017

I am currently working towards Early Years Teacher Status as an Early Childhood Studies graduate. I am sharing my academic journey hoping to inspire those considering academic studies of their own.

The Power of Positive Words in Anti-Racism Education for Young Childre…

by Dr Lucretia Carter Berry on November 14, 2023

Dr Lucretia Carter Berry explores the transformative power of employing positive, affirming words when engaging in anti-racism education with young children.

The Practitioner as an Explorer: Effective Observation Techniques

by Karen James and Jo Kavakeb on December 15, 2010

Observation is at the heart of effective provision, and it ensures that we keep the child at the centre of our practice. This article discusses various tools and techniques practitioners need to carry out effective observation and to support learning…

The Role of the Adult in Early Years Settings: Part 1

by Janet Rose on June 25, 2013

Janet Rose, Senior Lecturer in the School of Education at Bath Spa University, explores the many different ways in which adults interact with young children in early years settings. Research demonstrates that the heart of quality practice lies with…

The Role of the Adult in Early Years Settings: Part 2

by Janet Rose on July 16, 2013

Part 2 continues the journey of exploring our role in supporting young children’s learning and development. It outlines the five remaining ‘selves’ of the ‘plural practitioner’ framework that encompass this role. The ‘plural practitioner’ framewor…

The role of the teacher

by Dee Hayday on January 24, 2011

Dee's usual impartial, fair minded approach is applied to the question of 'Teachers: What are they for?'. The article carries the usual health warning!

The Snowman Drama

by Jacquie Long on December 14, 2010

Another in our growing series of drama activities - the snowman drama. Especially for January and February!

Thinking Approaches for the Reflective Professional

by Ruksana Mohammed on March 1, 2013

Our aim as professionals is to achieve better outcomes for children, families and the community. We want to provide effective learning experiences for the children in our care, and strive for continuous quality improvement, but also want to ensure p…

Thinking Creatively about Creative Development

by Martine Horvath on November 7, 2010

Martine Horvath's belief that all children are born creative is one that many practitioners share. In this article she describes what creativity means in the early years and how we can support this crucial area of learning and development.

Twenty top tips for helping to develop self-discipline for positive be…

by Martine Horvath on April 27, 2016

With increasing numbers of children being diagnosed with special educational needs such as ADHD and autism, managing challenging behaviour in a positive way is a challenge most practitioners face in their settings on a daily basis. As practitioners…

Using 'Owl Babies' by Martin Waddell & Patrick Benson as a focus for a…

by Juliet Mickelburgh on December 15, 2010

This is a lovely book to focus on when children are starting school or nursery or with a new childminder. There are lots of opportunities to talk about how we feel when the people we love leave, and how we feel when they come back again. Children can…

Using "Dear Zoo" as a Focus for Activities

by Juliet Mickelburgh on December 16, 2010

Here is another collection of planning ideas using a big book as the inspiration for learning. There are suggested activity starting points related to the Areas of Learning and Development, as well as ideas for displays and role play areas. A book li…

Using "Harry and the Bucketful of Dinosaurs" as a Focus for Activitie…

by Juliet Mickelburgh on January 18, 2011

Another collection of planning ideas using a big book as the starting point. Activities are linked to the EYFS Areas of Learning and Development, including suggestions for displays and role play areas.

Using "The Gruffalo" as a Focus for Activities

by Juliet Mickelburgh on January 18, 2011

This is the first in a series of planning ideas using a big book as the starting point.

Using "You Choose" by Pippa Goodhart and Nick Sharratt, as a Focus fo…

by Juliet Mickelburgh on December 16, 2010

A new collection of ideas for activities inspired by a children's book. Suggested activities are linked to the Areas of Learning and Development, followed by possible role play areas and displays. There is also a book list with links to other books b…

Using Drama in Reception - Bonfire!

by Jacquie Long on October 26, 2010

Jacquie describes a whole group drama approach applied to bonfire night. "Learning through Imagined Experience" from an enthusiastic and experienced reception teacher.

Welcoming new families and their babies to your setting

by FSF Rebecca on October 22, 2019

Rebecca Swindells is owner and manager of Blue Door Nursery. Here she explains how staff at Blue Door put themselves in the families’ shoes as they welcome new babies to their setting.

What's Critical About Critical Thinking?

by Joy Chalke on December 16, 2010

Joy Chalke, principal lecturer in the School of Education and Continuing Studies at the University of Portsmouth, demonstrates and analyses some of the critical thinking skills required of students engaged in higher education courses.

You are more than “just a teacher”

by Sara Bonetti on April 12, 2018

Practitioners do excellent work that goes unnoticed, leading many to feel disconnected and retreat in their field or even their classroom. So, then, many convince themselves that they are “just teachers”. When you are in the classroom, aren’t …

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Articles

Articles Professional Learning Toolkit

146 articles in this category