In the early years sector, safeguarding children is paramount and is a big responsibility for all early years educators. The Department for Education (DfE) recognises this critical need and is taking proactive steps to enhance the safeguarding requirements within the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. As they launch a consultation on proposed changes, it’s evident that the safety and wellbeing of children remain at the forefront of their priorities. Proposed changes to enhance safeguarding practices The proposed changes seek to formalise and reinforce existing best practices with ..read more

We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our referral program, designed to reward our valued customers for spreading the word about our innovative solutions. Read on to discover how you can join and start earning rewards today! Why have we created a referral program? At Connect Childcare, we understand the power of collaboration among early years professionals. Rather than viewing each other as competitors, you see the value in working together for the greater good of the children you care for. Over the years, we’ve witnessed countless instances where childcare settings share best practi ..read more

In early years education, the phrase “parent partnerships” crops up often. But why are these partnerships such a big deal in childcare settings? Well, to begin with, forming strong partnerships with both parents and carers allows educators to provide high-quality early years education and learning opportunities that meet Ofsted requirements. Plus,  research tells us that involving parents and carers in their children’s learning is the most important factor in enabling children to do well regardless of their background. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework emphasises worki ..read more

In the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) statutory framework, there’s a concise paragraph regarding nursery menus in the ‘Food and Drink’ guidance. 3.55 Where children are provided with meals, snacks, and drinks, these must be healthy, balanced and nutritious. Before a child is admitted to the setting the provider must obtain information about any special dietary requirements, preferences, and food allergies that the child has, and any special health requirements. Fresh drinking water must always be available and accessible to children. Providers must record and act on information from pa ..read more

In the competitive landscape of early years education, effectively managing nursery enquiries is crucial for attracting new families and ensuring the success of your childcare setting. Whether it’s a phone call, email enquiry, or in-person visit, every interaction with a potential parent presents an opportunity to showcase your nursery’s unique offerings and values.  As we approach the new term in September and the second phase of funding expansion for 9-month-olds, many parents will be reaching out to nurseries for more information. In this blog, we’ll delve into strategies and tips ..read more

Every Ofsted inspection and every childcare provider is unique, which means your Ofsted learning walk won’t look like the learning walk that the Ofsted inspector carried out with another nursery or childcare provider. Among the various aspects of inspection, the Ofsted learning walk stands out as a significant element. It’s not just a walk around the premises; it’s an opportunity to demonstrate your commitment to early years education and the quality of provision, teaching practices, and how well children are supported in their development in your childcare setting. Where does the Ofsted l ..read more

Recent changes to the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework have sparked discussions about the role of observations in early years education. The changes outlined in Section 2 of the EYFS framework emphasise the importance of assessment in understanding children’s progress and needs, while also addressing concerns about excessive paperwork and the role of practitioners drawing on their own professional judgement.  Practitioners are no longer required to prove this by collecting any physical evidence. This begs the question, are observations still important for early years prof ..read more

In the intricate web of a child’s development, parents play an irreplaceable role. They are not only the primary caregivers but also the first educators, shaping the foundation of their child’s journey. However, when children first begin attending an early years setting, this role undergoes a subtle yet notable shift. Suddenly, caregivers and educators extend beyond the confines of the family circle, resulting in the need for collaborative partnerships to ensure children are confident to learn and develop both at home and in their childcare setting. Research over the years has shown the va ..read more

From a parent’s perspective As a first-time parent of a one-year-old, I started researching suitable nurseries more than six months ago during my maternity leave. Looking back now, I realise how difficult it was to find the perfect setting. As a new mum, I was unsure about the type of nursery that would be best for my child, and there were various factors to consider such as cost, location, facilities and resources. I relied on several sources of information to guide me and help me make the right decision. As the new term approaches this September, many parents will be weighing up their opt ..read more

Guest blog by June O’Sullivan – CEO of London Early Years Foundation (LEYF). I became aware of the impact of prisons on small children through a chance conversation with one of my managers. She noticed the grandparent was bringing the child to nursery much more often and they were no longer seeing Mum. Nobody said anything until the manager gently broached the Mum’s absence with the grandparent.  It turned out that Mum was in prison and the grandparent was very embarrassed and ashamed of the situation but really struggling emotionally and financially.  The manager was highly sens ..read more