The Voice of Early Childhood
The Voice of Early Childhood is a weekly podcast centered on thoughtful conversations about early childhood. Each episode features discussion, reflection, and debate on issues relevant to the field. The show provides a window into the minds of advocates and professionals who work directly with young children. It aims to involve listeners in meaningful dialogue about how we support and educate our youngest learners. The podcast positions itself as a platform for voices shaping the future of early childhood.
Episodes
Reimagining outdoor learning: Understanding agency from risk to resilience
This podcast episode and article are a research-informed exploration of how outdoor environments, adult language and risk narratives shape children's agency. Drawing on the Reimagining Outdoor Learning Toolkit, we examine how educators can move beyond checklists, embrace managed risk, and create outdoor spaces where children's autonomy, confidence and curiosity can genuinely flourish. Read the
Marketing your early childhood setting is an investment, not a cost
This article and podcast episode explore why marketing should be viewed as an investment rather than a cost, why profitability matters for sustainability, the role a setting's website plays in both occupancy and recruitment, and why social media needs a clear purpose. They also consider the growing use of artificial intelligence (AI) and why, useful as it can be, it should support rather than repl
Beyond the diagnosis: Navigating the SEND journey with families
Receiving a SEND diagnosis is a transformative moment for families. This podcast episode and article explore how practitioners bridge the gap between statutory requirements and empathetic support, empowering parents as "experts" on their children. We examine the graduated approach, the SENDCo's pivotal role in transitions, and the necessity of inclusive, multi-agency collaboration. Read the art
Early childhood safeguarding changes 2026: Moving beyond compliance to a culture of safety
Maggie Bolger and Ann Marie Christian explore the changing safeguarding landscape in early childhood, including KCSIE, the EYFS, safer recruitment, reporting concerns and the September changes. They argue that stronger safeguarding is not simply about having the right policies in place, but about creating cultures where children, families and educators are heard, concerns are connected and everyo
From Behaviour to signal: A different way to understand children
Many childhood behaviours labelled as difficult, oppositional or defiant may make far more sense than we realise. This article and podcast episode explore a biological perspective on defiance, screens, difficult behaviour and why modern parenting has become so exhausting. We explore why children adapt when something important is missing from their experience, and how shifting our attention from b
The brain that loves to laugh
Laughter is often treated as a pleasant extra, or even a distraction from learning. Drawing on their work across psychology, education, health and community contexts, Dr Jacqueline Harding and Dr Jawad Shah explore how shared laughter can support connection, curiosity, hope and resilience, while making space for children's full emotional lives. What becomes possible when joy is taken seriously?
The hidden hearing crisis in early years – and the free solution every nursery can use
Too many children are quietly struggling to hear in early years settings, and it is often missed until their speech, learning and behaviour are already affected. This article and podcast episode share the story behind the Universal Glue Ear Screening Programme, explain what glue ear is and why it matters, and show how a free termly glue ear check can protect every child. Read the article here:
Who gets to feel seen in our classrooms? Culturally inclusive practice through books
How do books shape children's sense of identity, belonging and understanding of others? In this podcast episode and article, we explore the importance of representation in children's literature and why inclusive storytelling matters in early childhood education. Reflecting on personal experiences, this conversation considers how books can help children feel seen, valued and included. We also discu
Moving beyond 3 percent: Recruiting more men into early years
Drawing on personal experience, research and the Greater Than 3 mentor programme, Robert Harris explores why men remain underrepresented in early childhood. He considers the impact of gender diversity on children, the stigma and gatekeeping men can face, and how mentorship, representation and more inclusive pathways could help create lasting change across the profession. Read the article here:
Will you notice me? What children learn from how we respond to their distress
What if children's distress is not just a problem to solve, but a signal of their need to be seen? This article and podcast episode explore how children's expectations about availability and effectiveness of support from close others develop through repeated interactions with multiple caregivers. Using a psychological lens - in particular looking at attachment theory - we explore how educators and
Growing brains, growing bodies: Understanding ultra-processed foods
The first five years are a once-in-a-lifetime window of opportunity for brain development. During this period, food does far more than fill tummies, it helps support learning, behaviour, emotional wellbeing and lifelong health. This article and podcast episode explore the emerging evidence around ultra-processed foods and why food quality matters during the early years. Read the article here: h
What does good quality CPD look like?
Professional development is something every early childhood setting invests in, yet it does not always lead to meaningful or lasting change. Training sessions may be delivered, feedback forms may be completed, and educators may leave feeling inspired. But the more important question is what happens afterwards: does practice change in ways that benefit children? In this live podcast conversation
What is relationship-based parenting?
Raising happy, healthy, successful kids with the Core4Connectors - A relationship-based approach. Today's parents and carers are shifting their hopes for children from outward success to inner security. This article and podcast episode explore how relationship-based parenting from birth, rooted in trust, respect, honesty, and communication, creates the emotional safety that allows children to th
Early years leadership stories
The stories we carry shape how we lead, often without us realising. In early years, these narratives influence who we see as a leader and how we show up. This article and podcast episode explore how leadership stories are formed, the impact they have, and how shifting them can open up more intentional and inclusive ways of leading. Read the article here: https://thevoiceofearlychildhood.com/ear
Strengthening early childhood services: A case study from Maryland
This article and podcast episode explore how integrated early childhood approaches can strengthen systems of support for children and families. Using Maryland Family Network as a case study, we reflect on key themes including access to childcare, family support, early intervention, and cross-sector collaboration, offering insights that educators and policymakers can adapt within diverse internatio
Using the early years pupil premium to strengthen practice and equity
This article and podcast episode explore how the early years pupil premium (EYPP) can be used to strengthen practice and promote greater equity across the early childhood community. Drawing on research and professional experience, they reflect on why relationships with families matter, what evidence tells us about effective use of funding, and how a focus on high-quality provision can benefit all
What is sound-based emotional regulation?
Sound based emotional regulation is an emerging approach which uses carefully designed auditory experiences including voice, rhythm and specific sound frequencies to help children regulate their nervous systems. This article and podcast episode explore the science behind sound-based emotional regulation, why it matters in early childhood, and how sound can support emotional wellbeing in a variety
Professional curiosity: Creating cultures of reflection, safety and growth
Professional curiosity is often spoken about in early childhood practice, yet its meaning can remain abstract until it is grounded in everyday interactions with children, families and colleagues. This article and podcast episode explore what professional curiosity looks like in practice, why it matters, and how it can be nurtured within early childhood communities. Read the article here: https:
Supporting children's language through shared stories and sustained dialogue
This article explores the TWiTCH (Talk with Tales for Children) programme, outlining its pedagogical foundations and structure, alongside findings from an independent pilot evaluation. It highlights how coach-led professional development and dialogic story practices can strengthen educators' confidence and support children's language, reasoning, and engagement during shared book reading. Read th
Unconditional positive regard in early childhood: What we can still learn from Carl Rogers and Mister Rogers?
What might early childhood practice look like if relationships truly came first? In this article and podcast episode, we explore the idea of unconditional positive regard through the work of two influential figures who shared more than a surname: Carl Rogers and Fred Rogers. Although they worked in different spaces, both highlighted the power of acceptance, connection, and respect in supporting
How can we support children in the early years to flourish?
This article and podcast episode explore what it means for children to flourish in early years. They outline key characteristics of flourishing; positive relationships, emotional resilience, curiosity, and a sense of belonging, connecting these to effective early years teaching and learning. They provide practical strategies to embed flourishing, creating supportive environments, fostering emotion
A guide to potty training
The new government-backed Potty Training Guide moves away from the old 'readiness' model and promotes early, gradual learning and preparation from infancy. This article and podcast episode explore what the guidance means for families and settings, why coming out of nappies should be the final step in learning, and how practitioners and parents/carers can support confident, healthy toilet learning
Helicopter stories: Bringing every child's story to life
This reflective piece explores the power of Helicopter Stories to unlock children's thinking, imagination and emotional expression. Through real-life examples, it illustrates how storytelling can offer deep insight into children's inner worlds, build community, and provide an inclusive, child-centred approach where every voice is valued and every story matters. Read the article here: https://th
Stories that connect us: How books foster belonging in the early years
In early childhood, stories are more than words on a page. They are bridges—between experiences, identities, and possibilities. This idea sits at the heart of a powerful conversation with Laura Henry-Allain MBE: award-winning early education specialist, author, and creator of the ground-breaking CBeebies series JoJo and Gran Gran. In this podcast episode, Laura shares her insights on the transfor
Ofsted's renewed early years inspection framework: What educators need to know
The early childhood community in England is experiencing a significant shift in how early years provision is inspected and understood. Ofsted's renewed early years inspection framework, now in place, shapes this episode and article. Drawing on a conversation with Jayne Coward from Ofsted, it explores what has changed, what remains central, and what this means for educators, children and families.
Integrating evidence-based practice into the early years curriculum: How ABA principles align with EYFS
This article and podcast episode explore how Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) principles can be understood through EYFS language and practice. Mikaela Green, clinical director of therapeutic services and principal of First Bridge School, shows how strategies such as breaking learning into small steps, celebrating success, and creating enabling environments align seamlessly with EYFS priorities. Dr
Exploring maths through ramp play with Young Minds Big Maths
In Young Minds Big Maths, university mathematicians and early years educators collaborate to explore mathematics. We discuss how the project led us to create a booklet to help educators discover maths through play in their settings. The booklet uses real-life examples of ramp play—something children love—to show how building and experimenting with ramps reveals rich mathematical ideas. Read the
Why play? - How to make play an essential part of early education
Play is not a luxury—it's a biological necessity. From early childhood through adulthood, play fuels cognitive growth, emotional resilience, social competence, and physical development. This article and podcast episode explore why play matters, how it shapes learning, and what educators and caregivers must consider to protect and promote it. Read the article here: https://thevoiceofearlychildhood
The importance of developing emotional intelligence in children's early years
Emotional intelligence refers to the ability to recognise, understand and manage one's own emotions whilst also being able to empathise with and respond appropriately to the emotions of others. This article and podcast episode delve into this subject to explore what we can do to support emotional intelligence in the earliest years. Read the article here: https://thevoiceofearlychildhood.com
Reframing early childhood: How language impacts our professional identity
There has never been a more urgent time to reflect on how we, as a profession, present ourselves to the world. The early childhood community is rich in knowledge, experience and deep commitment to children's learning and wellbeing. Yet, we continue to wrestle with misunderstanding, mistrust and misrepresentation—externally and, at times, internally. This podcast episode and article draw attention
The Daycare Myth: Shifting the narrative on early childhood education
This article and podcast episode with Dr Dan Wuori, author of The Daycare Myth, challenge outdated perceptions of early childhood education, highlighting the need for policy reform, professional respect, and fair pay. Drawing on decades of experience, Dr Wuori calls for a reimagining of early learning as essential, complex, and deserving of greater societal value. Read the article here: https:/
The Best Start in Life strategy and what it means for the sector
The UK Government's Best Start in Life strategy, released in July 2025, sets out a cross-departmental vision to improve services for children and families in England. While it acknowledges the importance of early childhood, this article and podcast episode explores the significant gaps in funding, workforce support, and inclusion—raising critical questions about its implementation and long-term im
Nutritious mealtimes for under 5's
This article and podcast episode take a close look at some of the key questions around nutrition for under 5's; from what "free sugars" really are and why young children don't need much sugar, to how we can approach weaning confidently, prepare finger foods safely, and understand portion sizes in the early years. Read the article here: https://thevoiceofearlychildhood.com/nutritious-mealtimes-f
The science of play: How shared activities transform family dynamics
New research reveals the profound impact of play on family bonding, language development, and emotional connection Kinder and the University of East London's Institute for the Science of Early Years released preliminary research exploring how play ignites language skills, builds emotional connection, and bridges family disconnect. Using wearable technology monitoring real-time responses durin
A breath of fresh air: Reducing illness in early years settings by improving indoor air quality
Indoor air quality (IAQ) directly impacts child and staff health in early years settings and schools. This article and podcast episode explores why clean air matters, what we've learned from COVID-19, and three essential actions to reduce airborne disease transmission: monitor, filter, and ventilate. Read Anne Marie McConway's article here: https://thevoiceofearlychildhood.com/a-breath-of-fresh-
Extremely early literacy
How early is too early for literacy? It is never too early! This article and podcast episode explore the significance of early literacy from the prenatal period onwards. Drawing on brain development research and practical strategies, it highlights the power of narration, modelling, and bonding through books—laying strong foundations for language and a lifelong love of reading. Read the article
Beyond the algorithm: Exploring inclusion and diversity within AI
The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers a pivotal role in reshaping daily practice by streamlining the administrative processes, therefore freeing up valuable time and reducing time burden administrative tasks. AI can also support individuals with learning difficulties, dyslexia and visual impairments alongside non-native English speakers. However, AI is far from being inclusive whilst also
Elevating children's thinking: Conceptual understanding through inquiry and play
The International Baccalaureate (IB) emphasises concept-driven inquiry. In the Primary Years Programme (PYP) learners explore broad and transferable ideas, enabling deeper thinking and application across different contexts. This powerful way of thinking and learning begins with our younger learners who inquire into the world around them and develop conceptual understanding through both educator-le
Tummy time is an outdated notion
This article and podcast episode challenges the conventional practice of tummy time, drawing on research from Pikler, Feldenkrais, and Goddard Blythe to argue that babies thrive when allowed to move freely and naturally. It explores how self-initiated movement supports neurological development, reflex integration, and emotional regulation—highlighting the importance of trust, observation, and resp
Making the most of the Reception Baseline Assessment
In this re-released episode and article David Meechan critically explores the reception baseline assessment (RBA), questioning its purpose, reliability and impact on children, teachers and families. Drawing on his research and personal experience, he highlights practical ways educators and leaders can navigate the RBA while advocating for assessment approaches that truly reflect and support child-
Should 4-year-olds really be expected to sit still?
Reception teacher Poppy LeMar responds to Bridget Phillipson's claim that "half can't sit still" at age four, explaining that while children can sit briefly, their self-regulation is still developing. She highlights what sitting still actually looks like in a reception classroom, challenges misconceptions, and encourages better understanding between families and educators. She also advocates for i
Active vs passive screen time
Screen time isn't inherently passive — or problematic. This article and podcast episode explores the difference between active and passive screen time in early childhood, and how digital play, when used intentionally, can support critical life skills like empathy, resilience, and problem-solving. A balanced, developmental approach can help educators and caregivers make informed choices about child
Changing perspectives on risky play
This reflective piece explores how perspectives on risky play have changed over time, highlighting its importance for children's development. Darren Barkhouse draws on personal experiences and cultural comparisons – challenging today's risk-averse attitudes and advocates for supportive environments where children can explore, take risks, and grow. The article and podcast episode invite educators a
Starting school: Supporting children's transitions to reception and key stage 1
Transitions are significant milestones in a child's early learning journey, deeply shaping their sense of security, confidence, and readiness to engage with new experiences. Transitions to an early years setting from home and to starting school can be particularly significant periods of time for young children. In this article and podcast episode school improvement officer and director of early ye
A nature-deficit childhood
Children today are spending significantly less time outdoors than just a generation ago and this raises the question for parents and educators to consider, what are the implications of a childhood disconnected from nature? In this article and podcast episode Julia Packwood, early years outdoor specialist, highlights current research and explores how simply spending time outdoors can build the foun
How to take the first steps on your sustainability journey
This article and podcast episode explore the benefits of covering climate change and sustainability in early years settings, for both children and staff. It also outlines England's Department for Education's expectations on nurseries, relating to climate change, and introduce the England's leading environmental education programme for nurseries, 'Eco-Schools: Early Years'. Read the article here
It starts with us: Looking inwards as educational leaders
Education consultant Joanne Lo explores how self-reflection and personal wellbeing are essential foundations for effective leadership in schools and early years settings. Drawing on mindfulness and social-emotional learning, she shares practical strategies for fostering resilience, building supportive cultures, and modelling wellbeing as an educational leader. Read Joanne's article here: https:
Understanding the impact of childhood trauma and how to develop trauma-informed practices
Childhood trauma, often referred to as 'complex' or 'developmental' trauma, is extremely common but is not often discussed in the context of our work as early childhood educators. And yet, children are showing up to our settings/programs every day carrying the weight of these circumstances and, according to research, a trajectory of negative health outcomes for the lifespan as a result. But Mary H
The Pikler triangle: The tip of the iceberg
When most people hear the term Pikler their thoughts go to the Pikler triangle, a piece of equipment designed for climbing. When used appropriately this opens up opportunities for the very young to explore the edges of their physicality. The Pikler triangle could also be seen as a metaphor for the opportunities the Pikler approach provides to the relationship between children, their physical devel
Building a lasting early years brand
Do you want to know how to build a sustainable and successful early years brand to underpin your early years business? From sector insights to interesting case studies and practical advice – this article and podcast episode are a great point of reference for those who are starting out as well as those long-established providers who are looking to stand the test of time. Read Harry's article here
The power of words: How adult language shapes a child's future
Words hold a lot of power for children, they shape who they are and who they become. Yet 41% of children experience verbal abuse by adults, which can lead to lasting damage. Jessica Bondy, founder of Words Matter, discusses how by using positive, encouraging language we can build a child's confidence and help them flourish. Let's build children up with our words, not knock them down. Words matter
The full emotional diet: Finding emotional balance in the early years
We do not need a 'free from' diet when it comes to providing young children with emotional wellbeing and support. In the early years children need a safe space to experience, articulate, and process emotions – there is no such thing as a 'bad emotion'; they all have their role to play. Behaviour and emotional regulation coach Samantha Dholakia talks us through why children need the full 'emotiona
Cultivating a sense of belonging
Ryan Bradshaw emphasises the importance of fostering a sense of belonging in early childhood education. He shares his personal journey and experiences, highlighting the impact of belonging for both children and educators. Ryan advocates for greater male representation in the early years sector and discusses ways in which professionals can cultivate connection, belonging and promote diversity. Re
The Cornish Curriculum
In this episode… Mandy Richardson, owner of Naturally Learning nurseries in Cornwall, talks to us about how she created the Cornish Curriculum with her team. Mandy shares with us the details of her curriculum and some challenges along the way, including challenging Ofsted, practicalities of an outdoor nursery, defining what school readiness means to you, the 'Cornish Connection', teaching diversit
How can AI positively impact education?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the potential to revolutionise various sectors, including early childhood education. This podcast episode and article explore how AI can positively impact nurseries, schools and wider early education. Key discussion points include: · The role of AI in its current form and the future of AI. · AI guiding us and informing our practice, rather than d
From picky eating to positive mealtimes: Supporting varied eating habits
This episode is in partnership with Nursery Management Show: Nursery Management Show is the largest show dedicated to nursery management and leadership. Join us on the 27th June 2025 for one day of insightful content, discussion and networking for the early years sector, plus access to industry leaders, suppliers and providers. Find out more here: https://nurserymanagementshow.co.uk/tickets?
Advocating for two-year-olds
More school-based nursery provision has been initiated within schools as part of the UK Government's focus on early years. In this podcast episode we discuss concerns around school-based nurseries, mindful care, respectful sleep spaces, ethical pedagogy, Schoolification, knowledgeable adults, nurturing and collaborative approaches… We also ask the pertinent questions: - Are schools ready for
Infant sleep and the role of technology in parenting
This episode is sponsored by Mimic Motion. Introducing Mimic Motion: The Ultimate Baby Sleep Solution For generations, parents have relied on car rides to lull their babies to sleep. The gentle hum of the engine, the rhythmic motion of the road, and the soothing vibrations create the perfect environment for a peaceful nap. But what if you could recreate that magic at home? Enter Mimic Motion, the
The value of loose parts and open-ended materials
Reusing materials in early childhood education fosters creativity, problem-solving, and environmental awareness. This article and podcast episode explore the benefits of incorporating loose parts and open-ended materials into play, particularly in the construction corners of the classroom – highlighting real classroom experiences where children repurpose materials to build meaningful projects. Rea
The power of the decision maker
This special episode addresses some deep topics, including the power of the decision maker, impartiality, belonging vs inclusion, the true opportunity for voice and representation, active participation and critical consumption of knowledge…as well as a Q&A from the early childhood community where Adam and Angelica unpick the show 'Adolescence' and implications for safeguarding, including the new
What is accidental leadership?
This episode is sponsored by Funding Loop: Funding Loop automates the process for nurseries of collecting funding forms from parents and typing that information into council portals. Funding Loop is used by over 2000 nurseries including over 80% of the top 25 nursery chains in the UK including Busy Bees. To find out more visit: https://www.fundingloop.co.uk/home In this episode: This podcast episo
It's time to rethink attention: Neuroscience in practice
What if children's attention isn't a skill to train, but a response to their environment, emotions and engagement? Dr Gemma Goldenberg and Professor Sam Wass encourage us to think about attention in this newer, different way. In the article and podcast episode they discuss shifting our understanding of attention from a 'mental muscle' to a holistic, responsive process—one that educators can meanin
Fostering a love of movement for life
Exploring how physical development, physical activity, physical education, and physical literacy contribute to a child's holistic development. This article and podcast episode highlight the importance of creating engaging, inclusive environments, empowering practitioners, and fostering a lifelong love of movement through early exposure and meaningful physical experiences. Read Josh Candy's artic
Understanding neuroscience in early childhood
This episode is sponsored by Mini Minds Matter. Find out more here: https://www.minimindsmatter.org.uk/ Neuroscience plays such a crucial role in understanding child development, principally in regard to brain growth, mental health, and emotional wellbeing. As children navigate their formative years, knowledge of brain function and neuroplasticity can inform practices that promote healthy developm
Should we punish and reward children's behaviour?
This episode is sponsored by Funding Loop: Funding Loop automates the process for nurseries of collecting funding forms from parents and typing that information into council portals. Funding Loop is used by over 2000 nurseries including over 80% of the top 25 nursery chains in the UK including Busy Bees. To find out more visit: https://www.fundingloop.co.uk/home There is no 'bad' behaviour. Behav
The Payback Scheme: Supporting early years and schools through energy savings
This episode is in partnership with T150 Energy. To submit an enquiry on your energy savings and receiving a donation visit: https://thevoiceofearlychildhood.com/the-payback-scheme/ With rising costs impacting education settings, the Payback Scheme offers a practical solution to ease financial pressures. By negotiating competitive contracts for gas, electricity, and water, the Payback Scheme he
Unpicking STEAM in early years
This episode is sponsored by Funding Loop: Funding Loop automates the process for nurseries of collecting funding forms from parents and typing that information into council portals. Funding Loop is used by over 2000 nurseries including over 80% of the top 25 nursery chains in the UK including Busy Bees. To find out more visit: https://www.fundingloop.co.uk/home Incorporating STEAM into the prov
The impact of domestic abuse on children
A warning for all viewers and listeners: This episode can be distressing as the topic is around domestic abuse. This episode is sponsored by Funding Loop: Funding Loop automates the process for nurseries of collecting funding forms from parents and typing that information into council portals. Funding Loop is used by over 2000 nurseries including over 80% of the top 25 nursery chains in the UK
Do something big…changing the narrative around working with small children
This episode is sponsored by Funding Loop: Funding Loop automates the process for nurseries of collecting funding forms from parents and typing that information into council portals. Funding Loop is used by over 2000 nurseries including over 80% of the top 25 nursery chains in the UK including Busy Bees. To find out more visit: https://www.fundingloop.co.uk/home Rachael Webster problematises t
Communication and language in early childhood today
Let's discuss the challenges around speech, language and communication, and how these can be overcome. Julie Kent and Dr Tanya Richardson discuss their professional and academic insights, including aspects explored in their new book. They unpick why language development is currently considered a public health problem and suggest approaches educators and parents/carers can take to reduce this conce
100th Episode: Slow pedagogy with Professor Alison Clark
To celebrate 100 episodes of The Voice of Early Childhood podcast we have a very special guest with us...the pioneering Professor Alison Clark. Best known for advocating for the voice of the child through her pioneering research with Professor Peter Moss on the Mosaic Approach: A participatory, multimethod approach of listening to young children's voices within qualitative research. Professor Alis
'It's not time out, it's time in' for both of us: Co- and self-regulation
This episode is sponsored by Mini Minds Matter. Find out more here: https://www.minimindsmatter.org.uk/ In recent years, there has been a shift in how we approach children's emotional development, moving away from measures such as "time out" towards a more holistic, supportive approach that helps children navigate and manage their emotions. This podcast episode and article explores the importanc
Navigating the realities of business ownership in the early years sector
This episode is sponsored by The Little Coach House and Jane Todd Nursery Business Support. Find out more here: The Little Coach House: http://www.littlecoachhouse.co.uk/ Jane Todd Nursery Business Support: http://www.janetodd.co.uk/ Working in early years is incredibly rewarding, but is it always viable? Jane Todd, an experienced early years business owner has had 5 early years related busine
My experience with burnout as a Black manager
A reflective piece on experiencing burnout as a Black nursery manager; recognising its signs, overcoming challenges, and fostering inclusivity and equity while prioritising mental health and sharing strategies for recovery, inclusivity, and equitable leadership practices. Read Lorraine's article here: https://thevoiceofearlychildhood.com/my-experience-with-burnout-as-a-black-manager/ If you enj
What is Makaton?
As more children need some form of augmentative and alternative communication, the use of Makaton is increasing. Rachel Makepeace, a Makaton tutor and Special Educational Needs (SEN) teacher, shares her experience of using Makaton to support children with speech, language and communication needs, as well as how Makaton has the potential to aid language development for all children. Read Rachel's
The value of storytelling
In this episode and article, Olivia Corbin-Phillip encourages us to see all conversations as stories, as we are all storytellers…Olivia explains that giving children the gift of becoming storytellers is incredibly valuable; from exploring emotions in the safe space of stories, to giving children agency, choice and voice through, there is so much incredible value in building a lifelong love of stor
Exploring career challenges for male educators in early childhood
Mattie talks about transitioning from one career to another and the challenges of working in both a male dominated as well as a female dominated workplace. The ups and downs are discussed, including prejudices and stereotypes, as well as making a positive impact through valuing differences, and Mattie's current work around supporting his setting in becoming a centre of excellence. Read Mattie's ar
Promoting racially just spaces in early childhood education
Yinka Ogunnusi encourages us to be critical educators and view our practice through an anti-racist lens. From code switching, tackling the feeling of guilt and the politics of early childhood, to 'I don't see colour'…Olayinka shares both the practical and reflective ways in which we can create racially just spaces. Read Yinka's article here: https://thevoiceofearlychildhood.com/promoting-racial
Quality provision for 0–2 year olds in English nurseries
Dr Mona Sakr shares insight into ongoing research around baby room provision, aiming to bring together evidence on what quality provision looks like for 0-2-year-olds. The article introduces a small-scale study which sparked the current wider research, and the podcast episode expands on the current research. Read Mona's article here: https://thevoiceofearlychildhood.com/experiences-of-baby-room-
Supporting regulation in the early years: A progressive approach
When creating their own curriculum Rosemary Lane Nursery School identified the need to highly focus on co- and self-regulation. Headteacher Jill Jones and Deputy Head Rebecca Martin discuss the need to constantly refine what they offer their children, planning for what they know, termly reviewing the curriculum and keeping it flexible. As such they are adapting their curriculum constantly. They sh
