Do we overuse the saying ‘be careful’ when talking to children? Here are our ideas on what to say instead. As parents, we often use the words ‘be careful’ when children start exploring, or when they are doing something …
Loose parts. What are they and what’s all the fuss about?
Loose parts were first talked about back in the 70’s by Simon Nicholson, who believed in the ability to empower creativity. So, what are loose parts? Loose parts are items, materials and resources that have no pre-planned use, no defined …
100 ways to praise a child
Children need praise and encouragement. It’s a basic human need to be acknowledged by other human beings … to be recognised. In an ideal world we would only seek and value positive acknowledgment, praise, encouragement and at times reward. However, …
Reasonable risk-taking & childhood development
Do you remember your childhood? Where you played? Who you played with? The great secret places, the fun, the danger, the freedom, the smells, the long days, the exhaustion? Did you take risks? I know I did. Reasonable risk-taking and …
Sensory play: Why is it so important?
Many people assume sensory play is all about touch but actually it’s about much more than that. We often talk about the five senses: taste, touch, sight, smell and sound but there’s also body awareness and balance. Taste – the stimulation …
Sun Safety for babies, toddlers & children
We all love the sunshine – just the thought of it makes you smile … cool drinks, barbeques and beaches … what’s not to love?!! With the wonderful weather we have been having recently and school holidays upon us the importance …
Importance of Outdoor Play
Guest Blog Post: by Emily Wragg Can you remember your favourite outdoor place to play as a child, the place where you felt most free and at ease to do things your own way, with no rules and restrictions on …
Le Français en s’amusant (Learn French whilst having fun)
Guest blog post: by Alison Middleton, Cartes Cochons French lessons for children at Children’s House Nursery in Southwell I have been teaching French to nursery age children for about 15 years. Previously (and currently) I had taught primary or secondary …
School Ready – what’s it all about?
What does being ‘ school ready ‘ mean? Being school ready can be defined in so many ways – there is no right or wrong answer. However school ready is more than just your child being ready to start school …
“Imagination will take you everywhere”
Guest Blog Post: by Jane Hildreth, Pyjama Drama, Newark Keep following the path through the deep, dark forest … did you remember to put a torch in the bag? until you come to the – oh no – the crocodile …