Re-release: Originally aired on 8 Dec 2023. This episode explores the benefits of outdoor learning in early childhood education, from mental health and development to fostering independence and community. Sarah Watkins discusses the challenges of reclaiming outdoor spaces, balancing risk, and ensuring older students don’t miss out on these vital experiences.

Episode Links

• Order your copy of our Early Excellence Guide to Outdoor Provision
• Read our Early Excellence Blog - The Fantastic Possibilities of Learning Outdoors in Cold, Wet and Windy Weather
• Explore our range of Outdoor Resources

Caroline Woodman joins us this week as we explore the impact of premature birth on children’s development. Caroline shares her own story and that of her son, Reuben, who was born prematurely. She emphasizes the importance of early intervention, understanding developmental challenges, and the need for educational professionals to be aware of the unique needs of premature children. Caroline also highlights the resources available for families and educators to support children like Reuben, advocating for greater awareness and understanding of the long-term effects of prematurity.

Episode Links

• Explore The Smallest Things Charity website
• Access Free Online Training from PRISM (Premature Infants’ Skills in Mathematics)
• Discover the Prem Aware Award and its Free Resources

Dr Simone Tomaz joins us this week as we explore the importance of physical opportunities for young children and how these experiences support other areas of development. The discussion also covers the balance between sleep, screen time and physical engagement in young children.

Episode Links

• Find Out About the Work of Dr Simone Tomaz
• Explore How to Provide Big Physical Experiences Outdoors With Our "Let’s Step Outside in the EYFS" CPD Training

We welcome Dr Karen Boardman from Edge Hill University to the podcast this week as we discuss all things early literacy.

Episode Links

• Explore Early Excellence Training on Strengthening Early Literacy in the EYFS
• Find Out More on the Work of Dr Karen Boardman
• Discover our Range of Literacy Resources

This week, we’re joined by Rhianne Stephens from Ely and Caerau Integrated Children’s Centre in Cardiff. We discuss the setting’s regular visits to the beach throughout the year and the fantastic impact of connecting with nature.

Episode Links

• Join our Upcoming Inspiring Leaders Conference
• Discover our Range of Outdoor Resources

This week we’re joined by Jayne Hosmer from the charity Pets as Therapy as we explore the impact of pets on our youngest children.

Episode Links

• Find out more about the work of Pets as Therapy

This week we’re joined by Dr. Jools Page as we explore her highly important research on professional love within EYFS settings.

Episode Links

• Watch the Video "Professional Love: The Dance of Reciprocity."
• Read the Blog "What is Professional Love?"
• Explore EYFS CPD Training

This week, Sara Adams returns to give us an update on her time as an Early Career Teacher working in Nursery. As part of the episode, we discuss the diverse needs of the children, reflective practice and the wonder of mathematics in the EYFS.

Episode Links

• Join our Free ECT Webinar 
• Listen to Sara's first ECT Episode
• New to the EYFS? Join This Key Online Training Package
• Have you Booked your Place at One of our Inspiring Leaders Conference Events Yet?

The brilliant Ben Kingston-Hughes joins us this week as we explore the power of joy when working with young children.

Episode Links

• Order Your Copy of Ben’s Book "Why Children Need Joy"
• Join us for our Inspiring Leaders Conference

Anna Wells joins us this week as we explore inspirational practice from a senior leader's perspective. We discuss observation and monitoring and the key markers in terms of effective EYFS practice.

Episode Links

• Book your place on the Inspiring Leaders Conference
• Explore Training for Senior Leaders