FAQS Learning & Development

Question Q – “What are people's thoughts on Christmas crafts? What benefits do children get from making a handprint card?” Answers A – “You may find this article interesting http://www.earlyyearscareers.com/.../why-hand-and.../ ” A – “Do the people who write these types of articles even really work with the children, like the ones … [Read more...] about What are people’s thoughts on Christmas crafts? What benefits do children get from making a handprint card?

Question Q – "I came across a pre-school that doesn't allow children to start if they're not toilet trained. I'm interested in finding out if other settings still follow this policy?" Answers A – “That's actually breaking the law. Settings ARE NOT, by law, allowed to discriminate against any child or family regardless of ability, needs, … [Read more...] about Can preschools stop a child starting who isn’t toilet trained?

Question Q - "Would you say it's good practice to have experienced knowledgeable senior nursery nurses in each room to offer continuity,or have a lead practitioner on a rota system each day in total 16 different people?" Answers – A – “Here are some qualities needed for leadership … [Read more...] about Is it good practice to have an experienced senior practitioner in each room?

Question Q - "I am involved in establishing a new setting and my manager has asked me to come up with a list of toys to purchase. The children will be aged 0-4. Is there anyone who has recently done something like this who would be willing to share what they came up with? I would like to establish a setting that encourages child development as … [Read more...] about What resources do you need when setting up a new early years setting?

Question Q – I have currently been promoted as a room leader of a two year room and wanted to know some of the different ideas of what resources, routines and activities other people use within their 2 year olds rooms?" Answers A – “Great article here on improving a cosy/story area  … [Read more...] about Resource, routine and activity ideas for 2 year olds

Question Q – “Does anybody have any ideas for a home corner/role play area for 0-2 year olds, or any photos of their own areas please?” Answers – A – “We were always advised by our foundation stage county liaisons to keep it as a home corner because it is something familiar that all children of this age group have experienced and can … [Read more...] about Does anybody have any ideas for a home corner/role play area for 0-2 year olds?

Question – Q - "I'm an EYT student and a setting I have come across mixes ages so 0-3 year olds have free play together. What are people's views on mixing 0-3 year olds. Some of these babies are as young as 7 months with rather large 3 year olds. As long as ratios are met is it safe and what are the benefits to mix 0-3 year olds?" Answers … [Read more...] about What are your views on mixed ages in the early years? Are there benefits?

Question – Q - “We would like to know what everyone does with 2 year checks. We take children from 2. How soon should they be done. What forms do settings use. Do the heath visitors need a copy from us or just parents?" Answers – A – “Here is a 2 year check form you can buy … [Read more...] about How do you complete the two year checks?

Question Q - "How many key children do people have? What's the most you are allowed?" Answers A – “I work in a room for 2-3 years olds. Myself (second in charge) and a level 2 member of staff have 8 key children each. The room leader has three and another level three qualified has three...” A – “Had 8 but due to changes there is only … [Read more...] about How many key children do people have? What’s the most you are allowed?”

Question – Q – "I am currently studying for my early years degree and whilst on placement have been lucky enough to be given a small amount of money to develop an area. We are looking at the music or physical room potentially. Any ideas please for a desperate student!! I feel lucky to have access to some money, and I really want to make the best … [Read more...] about Which area of my setting should i develolp; a music or a physical room?