Early Excellence Podcast

This week we're joined by Professor Sam Wass and Dr Elizabeth Kilbey as we explore the science behind the learning in the EYFS, the latest research on early childhood development, the impact of social interactions, play, and technology on young children, and practical advice for parents and practitioners.

Episode Links

• Discover how brain science shapes play in The Child in Mind, with Professor Sam Wass
• Explore how to strengthen adult interactions in the EYFS
• Find out how our practical workshops help parents support learning at home
• Discover simple ways to encourage talk at home
• Watch our early years training videos

Resources

• Institute for the Science of Early Years and Youth
• The Applaydu app by Kinder

What can early years practice learn from the Anji Play approach, and what does it look like day to day?

Re-release: Originally aired on 22 May 2026

Gemma Wales and Sarah Gaughan from Patana School in Bangkok join us to talk about how Anji Play has inspired their early years practice. We dig into the theory, the resources, what it looks like in practice and the impact it’s had on their young learners.

Episode Links

• Discover our support for International Schools and Settings
• Explore more on Anji Play

Emma Yiend joins us this week as we discuss the positive impact of child-centred practice and learning environments which inspire thoughts and challenge thinking.

Episode Links

• Join the Early Excellence Early Years Leaders Conference 2026/27
• Transform Your Classroom with an Expertly Designed Room Plan
• Discover our Block Area Collections

Mentioned in this episode:

Join our Conference for Early Years Leaders

https://earlyexcellence.com/early-years-leaders-conference/

Angela Thorogood joins us from St Mary's Primary School in Whitstable as we discuss how visits to the local area can provide rich learning experiences.

Episode Links

• Explore more about St Mary's Catholic Primary School, Whitstable
• Read our blog "The Outdoor Curriculum in all its Glory"
• Discover our Outdoor Learning Provision & Practice for 3-7yrs

Mentioned in this episode:

Join our Conference for Early Years Leaders

https://earlyexcellence.com/early-years-leaders-conference/

Emma Boor from Wild Boor Ideas joins us this week as we discuss the use of puppets and drama with young children.

Occupational Therapist Helen Buteux joins us this week on the podcast. She shares insights on physical development in the EYFS, the importance of foundational skills, and how occupational therapy can support children and families. This conversation highlights practical advice for parents and educators to foster healthy development from pregnancy through preschool.

Episode Links

• Read our Blog on The Importance of Fine Motor Skills in the EYFS
• Download our Free Outdoor Provision Audit Tool
• Explore our Upcoming Conference for Early Years Leaders

Mentioned in this episode:

Join our Conference for Early Years Leaders

https://earlyexcellence.com/early-years-leaders-conference/

Becky Lindsay joins us this week on the podcast as we discuss child-centred, research informed SEND practice.

Episode Links

• Meet the Needs of Children with SEND in the Early Years

Nancy Stewart joins us for this week’s episode of the podcast as we explore the new Birth to 5 Matters document following its official launch in July. We explore the new features included in the materials and also revisit the key principles which remain so central.

Episode Links

• Find out more about Birth to 5 Matters and download the materials

Join us as Jules Pottle, an expert in storytelling and education, shares innovative methods to integrate storytelling into teaching science, drama, and literacy. Discover how engaging narratives can transform learning experiences for children from early years to primary school.

Episode Links

• Storytelling in the Blocks and Small World Area
• Download our free Blocks Area Planning Guide

Stephen Kilgour joins us as we discuss the key principles of effective assessment in the EYFS.

Episode Links

• Find Out About our Early Excellence Assessment Suite
• Join Us for Training as we Explore Effective Practice in the Reception Year
• Explore Effective Continuous Provision Planning