Category: Featured News to Spotlight

In this blog post by Robin Taylor, Associate Head of St Pauls Nursery School and Specialist Leader in Early Mathematics, he explores what really underpins children’s mathematical development. Drawing on research from the Centre for Early Mathematics Learning and the Erikson Early Math Collaborative, Robin unpicks the foundational concepts, spatial reasoning and mathematical language that help children learn to count, and asks what a rich, playful “palette of provision” looks like in practice.

In this blog post, Simone Barnes explores why belonging sits at the heart of personal, social and emotional development. She looks at representation in the early years workforce and in children’s books, and shares team reflection questions to help settings tell every child: you belong here.

Reflective Practice Lead and DSL Leila Garau Taylor explores what the updated EYFS safeguarding requirements around privacy during intimate care mean in practice, reflecting on how we can balance children’s dignity and feelings with safeguarding, and how everyday routines teach children about consent, body autonomy and respectful relationships.

Childminder and former primary teacher Liz Willcox explores what genuine partnership with parents looks like beyond the settling-in period, sharing practical insights on building trust, navigating harder conversations, engaging families who may find it difficult to connect, and making communication truly two-way.