Shows
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 15 | Using technology to support communication with Emma JordanIn this episode, Mark Loveday is joined by Emma Jordan to discuss how technology impacts communication in children, exploring ways which parents and practitioners can use it to help support child development.
Emma and Mark talk about the importance of visual learning and sequencing when transitioning from early years to primary, and how this can be used to help support those children who are less confident in a learning setting.
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TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 13 | The importance of early intervention with Emma JordanMark Loveday is joined by Emma Jordan, a specialist speech and language therapist and co-service lead for the children's speech and language therapy service in Worcestershire.
In this episode, Emma explains the role of early intervention in education and identifying speech and language needs early. Emma also highlights the impact of communication on social and emotional health.
Practitioners can learn more about the tools for early identification of communication needs, being aware of children’s hearing capabilities and creating effective learning environments.
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Listene...2025-04-2415 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 5 | Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties with Arran SmithMark Loveday is joined by Arran Smith to discuss specific learning challenges (SPLDs) and the associated diagnostic labels, focussing on how to better support pupils.
In this episode, Arran explains how multi-sensory structured teaching supports processing information and aiding learning, as well as the importance of early diagnosis.
Practitioners can learn more about whole-brain learning and not just focussing about book work, but a broader learning delivery to support all pupils. Arran and Mark also talk about the Assess, Plan, Do, Review (APDR) cycle, as well as the importance of...2025-02-2719 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 1 | Understanding ADD and ADHD with Dale PicklesMark Loveday is joined by Dale Pickles, Managing Director of B Squared – assessment software for pupil tracking, evidence of learning and SEND CPD training – and host of the SENDcast podcast.
In this episode, Dale explains the terminology and differences between ADD and ADHD, inattentiveness in the classroom, misdiagnosis and overlooked needs.
Practitioners can learn more about the impact of neurodiversity on learning experiences, as well as gender differences in ADHD and autism diagnosis. This episode ultimately encourages practitioners to discover the importance of early diagnosis and understanding neurodiversity in greater...2025-01-3021 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode20 | Reinforcing positive behaviour with Professor David DaleyRuth Lue-Quee is joined for a final episode in this series by Professor David Daley, to discuss reinforcing positive behaviour in Early Years Settings. David talks about the importance of labelled praise and letting the child know exactly what they have done well, so this reenforces their behaviours in the future.
Ruth and David discuss “earshotting” - giving more praise to a child by communicating good behaviours to peers and other educators in front of the child. Reward charts and how best to implement them are discussed, as well as the evolution of this tool...2025-01-2317 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 18 | Proactive Behaviour Strategies with Professor David DaleyRuth Lue-Quee is joined again by Professor David Daley, to discuss proactive behaviour strategies in Early Years Settings.
David talks about the importance of creating predictable environments for learning and shares tips for how to help SEN children be comfortable with timings and their environment.
Practitioners will learn about individual strategies for supporting behaviour and supporting SEN children’s need to move around to focus better, as well as how to give them permission to regulate their own concentration.
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TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 16 | Overcoming Challenges in Collaborative Teams with Anna SpekeRuth Lue-Quee is joined by Anna Speke for a final episode, to focus on how to overcome challenges when collaborating with others. The episode highlights common challenges faced when collaborating in the early years and how to navigate differences in professional opinions.
Anna and Ruth round of the episode - and this series – by highlighting the role of leadership in collaboration and managing disagreements among team members. Practitioners will learn tips that can help them communicate and collaborate better with others in early years SEN settings.
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TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 14 | Building relationships with Parents and Carers, with Anna SpekeRuth Lue-Quee is joined again by Anna Speke, to discuss building relationships with parents and carers to support SEN pupils. Anna introduces early years and inclusion, before explaining how to involve parents and carers, rather than just inform them.
Anna and Ruth then discuss strategies for effective communication, including forging good relationships at the point of meeting of meeting a parent or carer – an example is simply calling them by their preferred name in front of their child. Practitioners may also learn how to understand the parent or carers’ own personal circumstances, to understand their home dynamic bette...2024-12-1217 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 13 | Strengthening SEN Support Internally with Anna SpekeRuth Lue-Quee is joined by Anna Speke, Early Years Education Officer at nasen, to discuss how to collaborate with different groups of people in order to support SEN pupils. In this first episode, Anna explains that everybody plays a role in supporting SEN children and she explains how to collaborate effectively for positive outcomes.
Anna shares valuable insights for practitioners working with children with SEN, discussing effective communication and boundaries in teams. This episode ultimately encourages practitioners to identify their own responsibilities in supporting SEN children and working with others to facilitate good outcomes in educational settings.
...2024-12-0515 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 11 | Inclusive Outdoor Learning Spaces with Shardi VaziriIn this episode, host Ruth Lue-Quee is joined by Shardi Vaziri to discuss building strategies to create an inclusive outdoor environment. Shardi discusses the difference between indoor and outdoor learning, citing the need to consider the skills that need to be developed in each setting.
Ruth and Shardi discuss the development of gross motor skills within an outdoor setting, as well as considering the area like a classroom with defined areas and equipment. The conversation touches on the change in environment, which will affect a child’s learning, and the need for children to get outside and lea...2024-11-2116 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 10 | Building an Inclusive Indoor Environment with Shardi VaziriRuth Lue-Quee is joined again by Shardi Vaziri, to discuss building strategies to create an inclusive indoor environment. Shardi highlights how designing an accessible classroom helps with children’s independence and supports their overall learning journey. The conversation highlights the need for practitioners to be mindful of how children approach and interact with as space, citing the need for clear labelling of classroom equipment, so the essentials are easy to find independent of an adult.
Shardi shares practical strategies for promoting an inclusive indoor environment in early years settings, such as the inclusion of steps to help chi...2024-11-1418 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 9 | Creating Inclusive Early Years Environments with Shardi VaziriRuth Lue-Quee is joined by Shardi Vaziri, an Early Years specialist, writer, and consultant, to discuss the importance of creating inclusive environments within the Early Years. Shardi explains the different types of Early Years settings and how to create inclusive spaces to support children in their learning and development, particularly those who may not yet be at age related expectations.
Shardi shares valuable insights for practitioners working with children with SEN, discussing how important a well-thought-out environment can be for young learners. By creating a holistic environment, practitioners can plan to support a range of needs both in...2024-11-0721 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 8 | The Third Teacher: Creating a Nurturing Environment with Helen BattelleyRuth Lue-Quee is joined by Helen Battelley for a final episode, to explore the concept of the "third teacher" and its impact on children's development. The episode highlights how the environment, often considered the "third teacher", plays an important role in fostering physical, emotional, and cognitive development in young children. Helen shares insights into how educators can create rich, inclusive, and play-based environments that allow children to develop confidence, physical skills, and creativity.
The conversation touches on various types of play, and stresses the importance of facilitating these experiences without adult over-intervention. Helen encourages e...2024-10-3120 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 7 | Let’s Get Moving! The 8 Senses with Helen BattelleyIn this episode, host Ruth Lue-Quee is joined by Helen Battelley to discuss the eight senses. Expanding beyond the traditional five senses - Helen introduces the vestibular, proprioceptive, and interoceptive systems, and their crucial roles in children's physical, social, and emotional development.
Practitioners are encouraged to incorporate a variety of movement activities into their settings to hone the three additional senses, helping children to develop body awareness, spatial navigation, and recognise internal bodily signals. This episode offers practical strategies and insights for early years practitioners dedicated to supporting the holistic development of children in th...2024-10-2422 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 6 | Are you an Enabler or Constrictor? with Helen BattelleyRuth Lue-Quee is joined again by Helen Battelley, to discuss the key role practitioners play in supporting children's movement and growth. Helen highlights how educators’ behaviours and attitudes can directly influence children's development, as young children tend to mirror the adults around them. She emphasises the need for practitioners to be mindful of their actions and language, ensuring they create positive and encouraging environments for children to thrive physically and emotionally.
Helen shares practical strategies for promoting movement in early years settings, such as removing unnecessary chairs, encouraging play, and creating physical activity policies. By...2024-10-1718 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 5 | Exploring Reflexes with Helen BattelleyRuth Lue-Quee is joined by Helen Battelley, expert in early childhood physical development, to discuss the critical role of reflexes and their impact on development. Helen explains the difference between primitive and postural reflexes, and how delays can affect children’s physical and emotional development. They highlight how early years practitioners can identify these delays and support children through targeted activities like tactile play and gross motor exercises.
Helen also shares valuable insights for practitioners working with children with SEN, discussing how challenges with reflexes can manifest in behaviours like anxiety or sensitivity to sou...2024-10-1013 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 4 | Is the Early Years Sector Fit for SEN? with Andre ImichIn this episode, Ruth Lue-Quee and Andre Imich discuss whether the Early Years sector is adequately equipped to support children with SEN. They highlight that the volume of children needing attention often surpasses the available support, particularly in areas like speech and language therapy. While there is strong ambition to improve, the sector still faces challenges with providing the right level of support and ensuring consistency, especially with the increasing use of agency staff.
Ruth and Andre outline key areas for improvement, including having a robust Early Years curriculum, sufficient staffing, effective communication with p...2024-10-0323 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 3 | Understanding and Supporting SEN with Andre ImichIn this episode, Ruth Lue-Quee and Andre Imich delve into the complexities of supporting children with multiple types of SEN in the early years. They explain that most children with SEN have more than one need, such as a child with hearing impairment also facing speech and language challenges. Understanding these co-occurring needs is essential, as conditions like autism can involve a range of issues that require specific interventions.
Ruth and Andre offer practical strategies for practitioners, noting that many approaches benefit all children, not just those with SEN. They suggest creating orderly, predictable environments and providing c...2024-09-2614 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 2 | Identifying SEN in Early Years with Andre ImichHost Ruth Lue-Quee is joined again by SEN expert Andre Imich as they discuss identifying SEN needs in Early Years. In this episode, they explore how to balance developmental expectations with a child’s individual needs, and the benefits of adapting the curriculum to support them better.
Ruth and Andre share practical tips for identifying SEN, such as paying attention to how children communicate non-verbally, how they play, and their behaviour. They stress the importance of working closely with parents and using a clear process to address concerns. They also encourage practitioners to seek help from specialists when...2024-09-1923 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 1 | An Introduction to SEN in Early Years with Andre ImichRuth Lue-Quee kicks off this new series with expert guest André Imich, as they dive into the complexities of Special Education Needs in the Early Years. With over a decade of experience as the SEN and Disability Professional Adviser for the DfE, Andre brings a wealth of knowledge on identifying and supporting children with SEN.
Ruth and Andre discuss what SEN truly means in an Early Years context, address common misconceptions, and the challenges settings face with the rise in SEN needs over the past few years. They also explore the resources available to pr...2024-09-1217 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 20 | Transitioning from Early Years with Ruth SwailesIn this episode, Alistair Bryce-Clegg is joined by Ruth Swailes, award-winning Early Years specialist, to discuss the transition from Early Years education. They emphasise the importance of maintaining familiarity for children, suggesting that Year 1 should retain elements of the foundation stage, such as having an art area for children who enjoyed art in foundation.
Ruth and Alistair advocate for viewing transitions as a process rather than a one-time event, recognising that abrupt changes can affect children differently. They stress the need to make transitions as seamless as possible and encourage educators to continually ask, "What is...2024-08-2925 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 19 | The Readiness Agenda with Ruth SwailesIn this episode, Alistair Bryce-Clegg is joined again by Ruth Swailes, award-winning Early Years specialist, to discuss school readiness and its implications in Early Years education. They shift the focus from children being ready for school to schools being ready for children, emphasising the unique needs of each child.
Ruth and Alistair challenge the conventional notion of readiness, which often ties it to compliance and discipline rather than effective learning, especially for neurodiverse children. They highlight that behaviours like 'good listening' vary among children and discuss the critical role of physical development in acquiring sk...2024-08-2221 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 18 | Building Skills in Early Years Curriculum with Ruth SwailesIn this episode, Alistair Bryce-Clegg is joined once again by Ruth Swailes, award-winning Early Years specialist, to discuss building skills in the Early Years curriculum. They emphasise that skill development stems from quality continuous provision and offer tips for crafting a curriculum tailored to specific school settings.
Ruth and Alistair delve into the essential areas for practitioners to consider when building curriculum, from questions about your individual staff and children, to the impact of furniture and timetables. They stress that everything done in the classroom should benefit the children and highlight the role of adults as...2024-08-1523 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 17 | What does Early Years Curriculum look like now? with Ruth SwailesIn this episode, Alistair Bryce-Clegg is joined by Ruth Swailes, award-winning Early Years specialist, to discuss the current landscape of the Early Years curriculum. They explore what an Early Years curriculum entails, a term that often intimidates practitioners.
Ruth and Alistair address the pressures of top-down mandates and emphasise the importance of creating curriculums tailored to the individual needs of children. They highlight the flexibility required to adapt to various settings and advocate for challenging the idea that a more formal curriculum is superior. The discussion finally underscores the value of play and where the best learning ex...2024-08-0819 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 11 | Supporting Changes at Home with Richard Knight & Julie PearsonIn this episode of the TTS Talking Early Years podcast, Alistair Bryce-Clegg continues the conversation around transitions with Richard Knight and Julie Pearson.
They delve into how to approach difficult transitions and bigger life events with children. Whether it’s answering questions about death, or simply acknowledging the fact that it’s okay to feel sad. They also explore the importance of letting educators and key people know when a big transition has happened, accounting for a child’s change in behaviour and mood.
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TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 10 | Supporting Big Changes with Richard Knight & Julie PearsonAlistair Bryce-Clegg is joined once again by Julie Pearson and Richard Knight from the Early Years Alliance. In this episode, they cover some of the bigger changes children tend to experience, and what practitioners can do to support them through these.
They emphasise the importance of making transitions exciting, whether that’s through using the right language, or making a new space as unthreatening and attractive as you can. They discuss using transitional objects to help too, such as a cuddly toy, and using digital recordings and visuals so a child knows what to expect.
2024-06-2020 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 9 | Supporting Everyday Changes with Richard Knight & Julie PearsonAlistair Bryce-Clegg is joined by Julie Pearson and Richard Knight from the Early Years Alliance. In this episode, they discuss the topic of supporting children through everyday changes.
The conversation covers examples of smaller, horizontal transitions that happen throughout a child’s day. Whether it’s transitioning in and out of play, or something as simple as being picked up and carried somewhere different – effective smaller transitions work as a blueprint for bigger transitions later on in life.
Tips are given on ways to manage these changes, and the importance of every adult being on the same p...2024-06-1322 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 8 | Working together to enact change for Early Years educatorsAlistair Bryce-Clegg and Dr Steph Ainsworth return for a final episode covering their discussion so far on teacher resilience and work/life balance.
Alistair and Steph look at the broader policy context of what we can do to help teacher resilience. They discuss the idea of a more flexible curriculum, where teachers have more autonomy within their role. Adopting a child-centered approach is also broached.
They wrap up the topic by emphasising the importance of a culture of resilience, and reinforcing how to build resilience on an individual level through self-compassion and having access to the...2024-05-1622 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 7 | Boosting Resilience in your Team & SettingIn this episode of the TTS Talking Early Years podcast, Alistair Bryce-Clegg continues the conversation around teacher resilience in the Early Years with Dr Steph Ainsworth, an education researcher and teacher educator.
Steph and Alistair delve into ways resilience can be boosted by working on solutions collaboratively as a team. Whether it’s leadership giving recognition to staff, conducting regular staff check-in meetings, or honing emotional intelligence within a team – working together is a vital part of building resilience.
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Listened and l...2024-05-1625 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 6 | How Early Years Educators can build ResilienceAlistair Bryce-Clegg is joined once again by Dr Steph Ainsworth, an education researcher and teacher educator. In this episode, Alistair and Steph cover some of the ways Early Years Educators can build resilience.
They emphasise the importance of a resilient environment, and how being resilient is actually a proactive process. Steph provides insights into using the ‘ACT’ model, having a higher awareness of your feelings and thoughts, and trying alternatives.
They also delve into practical ways you can reduce workload, instead, focusing on doing things that impact children the most.
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TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 4 | The Language & Communication Gap with Neil LeitchAlistair Bryce-Clegg and Neil Leitch return for a final episode to summarise their discussion so far on funding in Early Years, and how we can improve the language and communication gap in the sector.
Neil and Alistair emphasise how children are not developing the social skills they need due to a variety of factors, including not having time to develop a 1-2-1 relationship with educators. They also discuss how language is developed through engaging and sharing, which was impacted by the pandemic, and how the parental role is changing through no fault of parents themselves.
2024-05-0911 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 3 | SEN Underfunding in Early Years with Neil LeitchIn this episode of the TTS Talking Early Years podcast, Alistair Bryce-Clegg continues the conversation around funding in the Early Years with Neil Leitch, CEO of the Early Years Alliance.
Neil and Alistair delve into the topic of SEN specifically, emphasising the concerning situation of SEN children being rejected by schools who don’t have the staff levels to cope. The current recruitment retention crisis is affecting both staff and children, with essential 1-2-1 support needed that isn’t being funded.
The episode also expresses the catch-up culture children are now part of as a resul...2024-05-0218 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 2 | An Underpaid & Undervalued Workforce with Neil LeitchAlistair Bryce-Clegg is joined once again by Neil Leitch, CEO of the Early Years Alliance. In this episode, Alistair and Neil cover some of the perceptions around working in Early Years, and how we can improve this.
They emphasise the challenges of getting the right training and understanding around child development for staff, and the need for community among workers.
The episode also discusses the critical idea of the rounded child, and the Early Years educator role in raising kind, empathetic children who will be future leaders.
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TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 1 | Early Years Funded Hours with Neil LeitchAlistair Bryce-Clegg is joined by Neil Leitch, CEO of the Early Years Alliance. In this episode, they discuss the topic of Early Years funded hours.
The conversation underscores the need for re-focus on what children need and their wellbeing, particularly as Early Years are the critical years for development. They also cover the 3 main reasons people are leaving the Early Years sector, and what can be done to mitigate this.
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Listened and loved it? Sign-up here for excl...2024-04-1820 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 20: Essentials to safeguarding with Ann-Marie ChristianAlistair Bryce-Clegg and Ann-Marie Christian return for the Series 4 finale of the TTS Talking Early Years Podcast to summarise their discussion so far on the importance of safeguarding in early years education.
Alistair and Ann-Marie emphasise the need for a proactive approach to safeguarding, raising awareness among young children and creating a culture of vigilance. Ann-Marie also highlights the significance of using appropriate terminology when discussing private body parts, as well as the importance of understanding the signs and indicators of child abuse, even in cases of child-on-child harm.
The episode offers practical tips for prac...2024-04-0319 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 19: Designated safeguarding leads and policy with Ann-Marie ChristianIn this episode of the TTS Talking Early Years podcast, Alistair Bryce-Clegg continues the conversation around safeguarding in the Early Years with Ann-Marie Christian, a safeguarding consultant, speaker, and author.
Ann-Marie and Alistair delve into the importance of safeguarding policies, emphasising the need for practitioners to be aware of national and local legislation, guidance, and procedures. Ann-Marie highlights the significance of the document "Keeping Children Safe in Education", as it provides a legal framework for safeguarding practices. She stresses the importance of clear and transparent safeguarding policies that should be regularly reviewed and updated.
The ep...2024-03-2819 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 17: An introduction to safeguarding with Ann-Marie ChristianAlistair Bryce-Clegg is joined by Ann-Marie Christian, a safeguarding consultant, speaker, and author. In this episode, they delve into the crucial topic of safeguarding in the early years.
The conversation underscores the challenges of recognising safeguarding issues and the role of early years practitioners as vigilant observers. Information sharing within the team is crucial, as child abuse can occur in various settings, even affluent ones. They also stress that cultural beliefs and practices may sometimes clash with safeguarding principles.
Ann-Marie and Alistair emphasize the complexity of safeguarding and the necessity of training and support for pr...2024-03-1420 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 16: Inclusive learning environments for all with Debs DaviesAlistair Bryce-Clegg and Debs Davies return for the final episode of the topic to discuss practical strategies for supporting the development of neurodivergent children.
They emphasise the importance of not making assumptions about a child's behaviour and suggest that practitioners should try to understand the reasons behind a child's actions, such as sensory needs. They also highlight the potential harm of punitive measures, like missing break times or public shaming, and how these can negatively impact neurodivergent children.
Debs and Alistair stress the significance of acceptance and the need for individualised support that respects each chi...2024-03-0722 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 15: Breaking down the barriers to create a more inclusive approach with Debs DaviesAlistair Bryce-Clegg is joined again by Debs Davies, a coach and consultant, to discuss how to support children with ADHD and neurodiversity.
Debs and Alistair emphasise that ADHD affects children differently, highlighting the need for a more flexible and inclusive approach in the early years. Transition periods can be challenging for neurodivergent children due to their struggles with attention, working memory, and starting new tasks. Debs stresses the importance of understanding these challenges rather than assuming defiance or non-compliance.
They also touch on the long-term impact of negative reinforcement on neurodivergent children's mental health and self-e...2024-02-2919 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 14: Improving outcomes for neurodivergent learners with Debs DaviesAlistair Bryce-Clegg is joined again by Debs Davies, a coach and consultant who is committed to helping create affirming and inclusive environments where neurodivergent people can be valued. In this episode, Alistair and Debs discuss ADHD and how educators can become more aware of it, recognising that it presents itself in various ways beyond common stereotypes.
They emphasise that understanding and addressing ADHD isn't about planning a separate curriculum for neurodivergent children but rather creating inclusive spaces that benefit all students. Debs explains that ADHD is related to executive function challenges, like planning, organising, and self-regulation, which e...2024-02-2227 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 13: Approaches to ADHD through an inclusive lens with Debs DaviesAlistair Bryce-Clegg is joined by Debs Davies, a coach and consultant who is committed to helping create affirming and inclusive environments where neurodivergent people can be valued. In this episode, Alistair and Debs introduce the topic of ADHD through an inclusive lens.
Debs discusses her late ADHD diagnosis and her journey to becoming an ADHD coach after a career in the corporate world and education. The podcast explores the importance of recognising and understanding neurodivergent children's needs in early years settings. Debs and Alistair emphasise the significance of moving away from traditional, limiting teaching practices and creating m...2024-02-1521 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 10: Emotional intelligence in the early years with Samantha DholakiaAlistair Bryce-Clegg is joined once again by Samantha Dholakia, a renowned Behaviour and Oracy Specialist, Consultant Trainer, and Creator of The Balance System©. Join them for an engaging discussion on emotional intelligence in early years education.
Sam expresses her belief that emotional intelligence is a vital skill to impart to the little learners, as it underpins their actions, thoughts, and responses. They discuss the importance of self-awareness, self-regulation, effective communication, and social skills in a child's emotional development. The conversation delves into the significance of understanding emotional regulation and how it contributes to building resilience in young chil...2024-01-2520 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 9: Coaching emotional regulation with Samantha DholakiaAlistair Bryce-Clegg is joined by Samantha Dholakia, a renowned Behaviour and Oracy Specialist, Consultant Trainer, and Creator of The Balance System©. In this episode, Alistair and Samantha introduce the topic of emotional intelligence and regulation in the Early Years.
Samantha and Alistair raise the need to coach behaviour rather than simply managing it, advocating for a deeper understanding of how children process and express emotions. The episode also highlights the accelerated brain development in early years and the necessity of establishing strong neurological foundations for effective emotional regulation.
Throughout the discussion, the pair challenge conventional norm...2024-01-1820 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 8: Reflective practice in supporting wellbeing with Kate MoxleyAlistair Bryce-Clegg is joined by Kate Moxley, an Early Years consultant, trainer and speaker for the final episode on the topic of emotional connection and wellbeing. Alistair and Kate bring together everything discussed so far and focus on the practical tips for putting wellbeing at the centre of early years settings.
In this episode, Kate stresses the importance of reflective practice and how it can create a culture where wellbeing is prioritised. Kate and Alistair discuss the barriers that often hinder reflection and vulnerability in the workplace, such as a lack of appropriate training, and the need for...2024-01-1122 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 7: Honouring, valuing, and respecting staff with Kate MoxleyAlistair Bryce-Clegg is joined by Kate Moxley, an Early Years consultant, trainer and speaker, to delve into the importance of fostering wellbeing within early childhood education teams.
Kate stresses the need to address mental health in the early childhood education sector, breaking the stigma around it, and highlighting that both educators and children have mental health needs. The episode encourages open conversations and caring for the wellbeing of both the team and the children they serve.
Alistair and Kate also touch on the challenges of managing work-life balance, setting boundaries, and the importance of practicing self...2024-01-0419 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 6: Fostering connection and belonging with Kate MoxleyAlistair Bryce-Clegg is joined once again by Kate Moxley, an Early Years consultant, trainer and speaker specialising in wellbeing and mental health. In this episode of the TTS Talking Early Years podcast, Alistair and Kate delve into the importance of establishing a sense of belonging and connection for children in early years settings.
They discuss the significance of secure bonds and connections, emphasising the need to understand each child's individuality, including their likes, dislikes, cultural background, and unique experiences. Kate stresses the importance of recognising that children's behaviour often stems from emotional responses they struggle to articulate.
2023-12-2822 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 5: Making wellbeing the heart of your setting with Kate MoxleyAlistair Bryce-Clegg is joined by Kate Moxley, an Early Years consultant, trainer and speaker specialising in wellbeing and mental health. Over the next four episodes, the pair focus on emotional connection and wellbeing in early years settings.
In this episode, they discuss the need for practitioners to focus on fostering a sense of wellbeing in both children and themselves. They highlight the challenges faced by educators during periods of transition, such as the start of a new school year, the impact of COVID-19 on children's socialisation, and the need for a shift in priorities from policy-driven outcomes to...2023-12-2120 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 4: Working together to support children’s mental health with Kate SilvertonAlistair Bryce Clegg and Kate Silverton return for the final episode to round up the topic of understanding children's behaviour.
Kate and Alistair touch on concepts discussed so far, stressing the need to understand the science behind behaviour, advocating for viewing children through the lens of neuroscience to promote empathetic responses.
The importance of providing a secure and safe environment for children to develop and learn is a central theme, with an emphasis on fostering empathy, setting simple boundaries, and integrating play and movement into early education.
The discussion encourages a shift from tradi...2023-12-1422 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 3: The wisdom circle with Kate SilvertonFor episode 3 of the TTS Talking Early Years Podcast, Alistair Bryce-Clegg is joined once again by Kate Silverton, a leading broadcaster, child psychologist, and author. This episode delves into the concept of the “wisdom circle”.
Kate discusses ancestral parenting models and the importance of extended support networks in nurturing children. She touches on the challenges modern parents face in a more isolated context, contrasting it with the traditional village-like support systems.
The conversation touches on the need for a collective approach, where parents, educators, and practitioners create a supportive community for children, promoting a sense of safe...2023-12-0728 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 2: Practical tips for managing emotional responses with Kate SilvertonAlistair Bryce-Clegg is joined once again by Kate Silverton, a leading broadcaster, child psychologist, and author. In this episode, Kate and Alistair delve into understanding and managing children's emotional responses in early years.
Kate discusses how practitioners can recognise early signs of emotional reactions in children and offer strategies to guide them through handling strong emotions. Drawing on personal experiences, Kate emphasises the importance of comprehending the neuroscience behind stress responses and how adults can aid children in regulating these emotions.
Kate also introduces the concept of SAS (Say what you see, Acknowledge, Soothe) parenting, high...2023-12-0420 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 2: Practical tips for managing emotional responses with Kate SilvertonAlistair Bryce-Clegg is joined once again by Kate Silverton, a leading broadcaster, child therapist, and author. In this episode, Kate and Alistair delve into understanding and managing children's emotional responses in early years.
Kate discusses how practitioners can recognise early signs of emotional reactions in children and offer strategies to guide them through handling strong emotions. Drawing on personal experiences, Kate emphasises the importance of comprehending the neuroscience behind stress responses and how adults can aid children in regulating these emotions.
Kate also introduces the concept of SAS (Say what you see, Acknowledge, Soothe) parenting, high...2023-11-3022 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 20: Supporting and empowering every family with Laura Henry-Allain MBEShaddai Tembo and Laura Henry-Allain MBE return for the final episode of this series of the TTS Talking Early Years podcast, to discuss the importance of recognising the uniqueness and diversity of every family.
Laura emphasises that it's crucial to understand the family dynamics of every child in an early years setting to ensure that you can represent and support a child's self-identity. Communication plays a key part in this; listening, learning, and ensuring that every family is acknowledged irrespective of how diverse they may be.
📌 To shop for resources relevant to this podcast conversation, clic...2023-11-1624 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 18: How can early years educators promote anti-racism with Laura Henry-Allain MBEShaddai Tembo is joined once again by Laura Henry-Allain MBE, an award-winning international storyteller, educationalist, producer, and consultant. In this episode, Laura and Shaddai explore how educators can promote anti-racism in their settings.
Laura explains the importance of including the whole team, parents, and wider community to embed anti-racism across all areas of your early years setting and practice. Anti-racism should be considered throughout all areas of your setting, environment, and interactions.
Laura also shares that resources and books could contain imagery and terminology that is discriminatory; therefore, reviewing these and their appropriateness is vital in...2023-11-0221 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 15: Understanding diverse child development with Kerry MurphyIn this episode, Shaddai Tembo is joined by Kerry Murphy, an Early Years lecturer at Goldsmiths, University of London and consultant, to discuss new perspectives on child development.
Kerry introduces the idea of a ‘Celebratory Framework’ as a method of challenging the deficit lens that was discussed in the last episode. She expands on how settings can adopt a more holistic approach when reviewing individual children’s development.
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TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 14: Ableism in play with Kerry MurphyThroughout this episode, Shaddai Tembo is joined by Kerry Murphy, an Early Years lecturer at Goldsmiths, University of London and consultant, to discuss the meaning of ableism and how practitioners can address it.
Kerry offers examples of how practitioners could unknowingly be perpetuating ableism and encouraging masking. Expectations around how children should pay attention, play and socialise lead to children being put into intervention to teach them to act more neurotypical.
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Listened and loved it? Sign-up here for exclusive...2023-10-0519 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 13: Improving educator understanding of neurodiversity with Kerry MurphyIn this episode, Shaddai Tembo is joined by Kerry Murphy, an Early Years lecturer at Goldsmiths, University of London and consultant, to discuss why adopting a neurodiverse approach is crucial in the early years.
Historically, diversity or neurodiverse people have typically been viewed through a deficit lens. Kerry explains that in today’s society, we are getting better at understanding the needs of neurodiverse people but children are still exposed to a deficit experience through intervention strategies with an aim of making children ‘less neurodivergent’.
She adds the importance of seeing neurodivergence as part of developm...2023-09-2816 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 12: How settings can get more men in the Early Years with Joss Cambridge-SimmonsTo round up the 4th and final episode with Joss Cambridge-Simmons, Shaddai asks Joss to share his thoughts on how action settings can be put in place to promote a diverse and equal workforce.
A more gender-balanced workforce will provide children with the widest range of experiences, skills, and teaching styles that will benefit their learning and development.
Joss and Shaddai discuss the role of government, legislation, and films to change the attitudes towards men working in the early years and help create to create a better gender balance.
📌 To shop for resources relevant...2023-09-2117 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 11: The skills developed as an Early Years practitioner with Joss Cambridge-SimmonsIn this episode, Shaddai Tembo is joined again by Joss Cambridge-Simmons, the UK’s leading ‘super manny’ and founder of ‘Jossy Care’, to look at self-reflection and other skills needed to work with children in the Early Years.
Joss discusses the skills and qualities that make a great early years practitioner, including passion, emotional intelligence, and love. He explains the importance of self-care and examining your own feelings and attitudes to avoid successive generations of children experiencing bias and inequality.
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Listened and love...2023-09-1415 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 10: The importance of representation within the sector with Joss Cambridge-SimmonsThroughout this episode, Shaddai Tembo is joined again by Joss Cambridge-Simmons, the UK’s leading ‘super manny’ and founder of ‘Jossy Care’, to continue the conversations on gender and the need for more diversity in the Early Years.
Joss expands on the previous episode, discussing why it’s important for children to have role models from a diverse range of backgrounds. He explains that children generalise and take things literally, so it’s important to give children a positive message about race and gender from an early age.
📌 To shop for resources relevant to this podcast conversatio...2023-09-0715 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 9: An introduction into gender and the importance of diversity with Joss Cambridge-SimmonsIn this episode, Shaddai Tembo is joined by Joss Cambridge-Simmons, the UK’s leading ‘super manny’ and founder of ‘Jossy Care’, for the first of the conversations on gender and the need for more diversity in the Early Years.
Joss discusses his experiences as a male nanny working in early years and delves into the challenges and biases that some male practitioners face. He explains how patriarchy is part of the reason that more men aren’t working in childcare and that we need to see a change in society so that men can be true to their identit...2023-08-3117 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 7: Challenging gender stereotypes with Professor Gina RipponIn this episode, Shaddai Tembo is joined again by Professor Gina Rippon, Emeritus Professor of Cognitive Neuroimaging at the Aston Brain Centre, Aston University, to discuss what early years settings can do to promote a more gender inclusive practice.
Gina shares with listeners some of the practical steps and strategies that can be taken to challenge gender stereotypes that children naturally pick up and are exposed to in the early years. From regularly auditing the environment and resources, using appropriate and inclusive language, to having a gender champion representative within the setting, Gina and Shaddai discuss simple so...2023-08-1916 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 6: Gender in children's play with Professor Gina RipponThroughout this episode, Shaddai Tembo is joined again by Professor Gina Rippon, Emeritus Professor of Cognitive Neuroimaging at the Aston Brain Centre, Aston University, to continue the conversation of keeping gender on the agenda in the early years.
Touching on her own research and experience, Gina reiterates just how important the first five years are in shaping a child’s brain. Referring to children as ‘gender detectives’ both Gina and Shaddai discuss how play-based experiences have a huge impact on children’s understanding and perspective of gender and sex differences, as well as their social skills and emotional...2023-08-1721 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 4: Promoting inclusive practice with Dr. Sharon ColillesShaddai Tembo is joined by Dr. Sharon Colilles for one final time to wrap up their incredibly insightful discussion on inclusive practice in the early years. Throughout this episode, we explore how practitioners can challenge their practice to make positive changes.
Sharon shares what advice she would give to practitioners trying to implement inclusive pedagogy within their settings.
Reflecting on previous conversations with Shaddai, Sharon touches on the importance of time to reflect, but also the power the resources being used can hold within the learning environment. Do the resources enable children to think about th...2023-08-1021 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 2: The voice of the child with Dr. Sharon ColillesThroughout this episode, Shaddai Tembo is joined by Dr. Sharon Colilles, to further explore the topic of inclusive practice in the early years. In this episode, Sharon and Shaddai talk all things observation and reflection, to enable practitioners to incorporate each child’s ethnic and cultural experience in the context of the setting.
Focusing on the voice of the child and how important tuning into the child’s needs are, Shaddai asks Sharon to share her thoughts on how practitioners can learn and adapt their practise to be more inclusive based on children's own knowledge and language.
...2023-08-0322 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 1: An introduction to Inclusive Practice with Dr. Sharon ColillesFor the first episode of this season, Shaddai Tembo is joined by Dr. Sharon Colilles, a senior lecturer in Early Childhood studies at Bath Spa University and associate trainer for Early Education. To kick off the first episode of season 3, Shaddai and Sharon introduce what inclusive pedagogy is and why this is so important in the early years.
Sharon shares her perspective on inclusion and why it’s critical to consider each diverse learner individually. Ensuring their voice is heard and their perspective on decisions that are made about them within the curricular. Sharon adds that it is...2023-07-2924 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 20: Looking to the future of Intergenerational Practice with Liz Ludden & Sue EgersdorffAlice is joined by Liz Ludden and Sue Egersdorff for one final time in the very last episode of series 2! In this episode, Alice asks Liz and Sue to reflect on their experiences of intergenerational practice so far and why they're so passionate about a lifelong future for this approach to learning and care.
Liz and Sue reflect on the joyful moments they continue to experience each day, alongside the enhanced learning outcomes visible in children who are exposed to this approach. Although further research, understanding and resource is needed to roll this out nationally and globally, L...2023-07-2723 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 19: The benefits of Intergenerational Practice with Liz Ludden and Sue EgersdorffIn today’s episode, Alice Sharp is joined by Liz Ludden and Sue Egersdorff again to explore the benefits of an intergenerational approach in the early years.
From the key benefits such as improving children's vocabulary and communication skills to forming new relationships and combating social isolation, Liz and Sue explore the multitude of benefits associated with intergenerational practice. From this episode, you’ll discover real-life and heart-warming examples of why this approach is crucial, as well as ideas for integrating this style of learning into your own practice and every day.
📌 To shop for resources...2023-07-2223 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 17: An introduction to Intergenerational Practice with Liz Ludden & Sue EgersdorffIn this episode, Liz Ludden and Sue Egersdorff, founders of Ready Generations, a charity that supports intergenerational practice and care in the early years, join Alice Sharp to introduce the concept of intergenerational learning and practice.
Passionate about this approach to learning, Liz and Sue discuss why they believe this approach is so important for child development in the early years.
Liz and Sue explain that although still a relatively new approach in current practice, intergenerational practice is a way of learning that dates to many years ago, where we regularly had communities and generations of...2023-07-1521 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 16: Executive functioning in the Early Years with Mariana CarazoMariana Carazo, a play-based learning advocate, joins Alice Sharp for one final time. In this episode, Mariana and Alice discuss the role of executive functions, what they are and what strategies can be used to support children’s executive functioning in the early years.
Executive functions EXPLODE through the different types of open-ended play Mariana discusses in previous podcast episodes. When children engage into high-level play experiences, children develop critical skills such as the ability to self-regulate, be organised, problem-solve or adapt to change, plus so much more!
📌 To shop for resources relevant to this podcast...2023-07-1318 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 14: Developing key foundation skills through play with Mariana CarazoAlice Sharp is joined again by play-based learning advocate, Mariana Carazo to discuss the impact play-based learning has on developing key foundation skills in the early years.
Mariana explains the vital role educators play in opening the door to new opportunities across all areas of learning in the early years. This episode encourages practitioners to follow the relevant frameworks (also referred to as standards internationally), but to also be hands-on and immersed in the children’s learning, to scaffold and shape more meaningful experiences.
Mariana highlights 3 key takeaways for educators:
🔑 Collaborative learning is key
2023-06-2917 min
TTS Talking: The Educators' PodcastEpisode 11: Early childhood STEAM - the earlier the betterIn this episode, Mark Steed and Chris Birch, the Head of Key Stage 2 at Citizens School in Dubai, reconvene to look back at STEM at the foundation stage.
Chris discusses the importance of STEAM from an early age, encouraging children to be curious, creative and fostering hands-on opportunities.
📌 To shop for STEAM resources relevant to this week's episode, click here.
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(The views expressed throughout this podcast are the speakers' own, and...2023-06-2716 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 13: Play never ends with Mariana CarazoMariana Carazo, a play-based learning advocate, joins Alice Sharp to explore what play-based learning is and why she believes it is so crucial to develop children’s key skills in the Early Years.
Mariana defines play as a universal language. She explains that play evolves over time and never ends. It is an approach that should be interpreted differently with each child, learning environment and supporting resource to develop new skills and enhance children’s learning outcomes in the early years.
Alice probes the question as to whether play-based learning should have a structure to it, or whet...2023-06-2218 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 12: Extending children’s vocabulary with Kate FreemanIn this episode of the TTS Talking Early Years Podcast, Alice Sharp is re-joined by Kate Freeman to inspire you with practical ways to extend children’s vocabulary in the Early Years.
Kate explains the reasons why interaction is so key in the early stages of child development. She talks about this not only from a learning perspective but also from a social and emotional perspective, helping children to engage in society, support with their ability to nurture and make connections, as well as express their feelings and emotions.
The conversation will provide you with insig...2023-06-1522 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 11: Early language development – what support is available for providers?In this episode of the TTS Talking Early Years Podcast, Alice Sharp is rejoined by Kate Freeman, Speech and Language therapist, to discuss the different type of speech and language support and resources that are available for educators and parents when supporting young children.
Knowing what training is available, how to pick what is most appropriate and where to access it can be extremely daunting not only to newly qualified practitioners but experienced too.
This episode has been developed with Kate and Alice to signpost some of the different training, resources and organisations available, as rec...2023-06-0820 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 10: Identifying language gaps with Kate FreemanIn this episode of the TTS Talking Early Years Podcast, Alice Sharp welcomes back Speech and Language Therapist, Kate Freeman to shares some of the ways that educators can identify gaps in children’s early speech development.
Throughout this episode, Kate shares:
The different types of speech, language and communication – what are they and when should we be’ worried’? What might some of the signs look like to a practitioner, parent or carer? What techniques may support in closing those gaps? Practical ways to get parents and carers involved in supporting developmental gaps.
📌 To shop for resources...2023-06-0121 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 9: The covid impact on children’s speech and language with Kate FreemanIn this episode of the TTS Talking Early Years Podcast, Alice Sharp is joined by Kate Freeman, Speech and Language therapist, to discuss the impact of the pandemic on children’s speech and language.
Kate explains how the word gap has become increasingly wider since the outbreak of COVID-19 due to factors such as mask-wearing, limited interaction, increased screen-time and social isolation.
Touching on her own experience, Kate shares the areas of speech and language that have been impacted the most, and what techniques can be used to rectify some of the issues and challenges that...2023-05-2719 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 8: Is continuous play enough? with Simon AireyAlice is joined by Simon Airey for the final time to talk all things continuous provision, also referenced to as continuous play. Simon begins by explaining what continuous play is, why it’s so important in the Early Years, but also the benefits of taking this approach beyond the EYFS too.
Throughout the episode Simon shares best examples of continuous play and experiences that have shaped his approach to collaborative play and the impact this has on children’s learning outcomes.
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Listened and loved...2023-05-2519 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 7: Creating language-rich opportunities with Simon AireyIn episode 7 of the TTS Talking Early Years Podcast, Alice Sharp is joined by Simon Airey to explore how a play-based approach to learning in the Early Years enriches and extends a child’s vocabulary.
Simon and Alice touch on the impact the pandemic has had on children’s language and how there is a greater need for additional support in settings across the UK and internationally. Sharing their own experiences of developing children’s language through play-based learning, Alice and Simon suggest practical and inspiring ways to support children’s language development and why tuning into the childre...2023-05-2019 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 4: Using open-ended resources to enhance language development with Olivia KirkbyDuring this episode of the TTS Talking Early Years Podcast, Alice Sharp and Olivia Kirkby talk all things resources. Olivia shares the importance of open-ended resources in the Early Years and the learning opportunities these physical resources support.
Providing open-ended, cross-curricular resources can enhance cognitive skills, language, self-regulation and self-discovery. Olivia explains that by using open-ended resources to support play-based learning enables children to learn new words and engage in back-and-forth conversations with one another.
Olivia adds that when practitioners share their excitement towards the resources and environment, the children are likely to be more eng...2023-05-0418 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 3: The importance of quality interactions with Olivia KirkbyDuring this episode of the TTS Talking Early Years Podcast, Alice Sharp and Olivia Kirkby explore the importance of quality interactions in the Early Years and the role practitioners must play in encouraging these interactions.
From open-ended questions, positive reinforcement to practitioners self-evaluating and reflecting on their own communication, Olivia and Alice suggest various practical ways to achieve quality and effective interactions that will form the foundations for language and cognitive development.
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Listened and loved it? Sign-up here for exclusive follow-up content and be...2023-04-2718 min
TTS Talking: The Educators' PodcastEpisode 2: The coding journey continued: Robotics in KS2 (Key Stage 2) and beyondIn episode 2 of the TTS Talking Teachers’ podcast, Mark Steed is joined by two members of Kellet School in Hong Kong - Andy Tallet, Digital Technology Lead, and Liam Murphy, Innovation Lead.
Andy and Liam explain how you can drive forward the computational skills learned in Key Stage 1 and integrate technology with the curriculum.
The team passionately dispels the myth that you need a certain level of knowledge to be able to bring technology into the classroom. Andy and Liam explain how tutorials and social media have made it easy for teachers to develop their skill...2023-04-2518 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 2: Emotionally secure learning environments with Olivia KirkbyDuring this episode of the TTS Talking Early Years Podcast, Alice Sharp and Olivia Kirkby continue the conversation on creating enticing, language-rich learning environments. This week, Alice and Olivia focus on exploring the emotional environment.
How do we create safe, secure and cosy places for play-based learning? And why is the emotional environment so integral to children’s learning and development in the Early Years? Alice and Olivia reflect on these questions and so much more to provide valuable insights, tips and guidance to help you create warm, safe and impactful learning environments.
📌 To shop for reso...2023-04-2019 min
TTS Talking: The Educators' PodcastEpisode 1: Robotics in Early Years and KS1 (Key Stage 1)In this very first episode of the TTS Talking Teachers’ Podcast, Mark Steed is joined by Andrew Tallet, Digital Technology Lead at Kellet School in Hong Kong.
Sharing his passion for integrating technology across the curriculum, Andy offers his guidance on how robotics can support learning from the Early Years through Key Stage 1.
📌 To shop for resources relevant to robotics in Early Years and KS1, click here.
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(The views expressed throughout this podcast...2023-04-1716 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 1: Creating enticing physical spaces with Olivia KirkbyWelcome to Series 2 of the TTS Talking Early Years Podcast! In this very first episode Alice Sharp (podcast host) is joined by TTS’ very own Early Years Consultant, Olivia Kirkby, to talk all things Early Years.
Alice and Olivia explore the role of the physical environment and why creating an enticing physical space is so important. Olivia explains that reflective practice is key in creating an enabling environment. When you enter a room in your setting, how does the space make you feel? How do the children interact with you, their peers and the resources within the spa...2023-04-1516 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 20: Forest School truths with Mel McCree and Sarah LawfullThis episode of the TTS Talking Early Years podcast wraps up what has been a jam-packed series 1; discovering the wonderful world of outdoor learning. In this final episode of series 1, Alistair and guests, Mel Mcree and Sarah Lawfull, jump right back into the topic of Forest School and why it’s so important.
Alistair Bryce-Clegg asks Mel and Sarah the million-dollar question; in an Instagram and Pinterest-dominated world, what exactly is the REALITY of Forest School and why is this reality so important?
Sarah and Mel talk about the importance of Forest School activities being led by...2023-04-1321 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 19: Risk-taking and Forest School with Mel McCree and Sarah LawfullEpisode 19 of the TTS Talking Early Years podcast continues the conversation about all things Forest School. Alistair Bryce-Clegg is joined again by renowned Forest School experts and advocates, Mel McCree and Sarah d Sarah Lawfull.
Research and evidence show that the Forest School approach actively develops children’s risk awareness and confidence in managing their own risk-taking abilities. Although it is such an integral part of early years education, we know it can sometimes be a daunting approach to adopt, especially in a risk-averse society.
Sharing their knowledge and experience with us, Mel and Sarah discu...2023-04-0819 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 18: The Forest School approach to learning with Mel McCree and Sarah LawfullIn this TTS Talking podcast episode, Alistair Bryce-Clegg is joined by renowned Forest School experts, Mel McCree and Sarah Lawfull.
Sharing their knowledge and passion for everything Forest School, Sarah and Mel share their tips and guidance to help practitioners develop their confidence when taking children’s learning outdoors and why the Forest School approach is an integral part of early childhood.
📌 To shop for resources relevant to Forest School in the early years, click here.
Listened and loved it? Sign-up here for exclusive follow-up content and be the first to hear about new episo...2023-04-0519 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 17: An introduction to the Forest School approach with Mel McCree and Sarah Lawfull In this TTS Talking podcast episode, Alistair Bryce-Clegg is joined by renowned Forest School experts, Mel McCree and Sarah Lawfull. Sharing their passion for the Forest School approach, Sarah and Mel explain to Alistair the 6 key principles and how this ethos benefits child development.
The Forest School ethos offers children a play-based approach to learning in the great outdoors. The approach focuses on all children having the opportunity to develop in a hands-on learning environment with experiences that aim to enhance key skills from the early years onwards.
📌 To shop for resources relevant to Forest Scho...2023-04-0119 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 16: Fostering a love for sustainability in the Early Years with Cheryl HadlandWith many Early Years settings looking for ways to implement more sustainable practices in their settings and outdoor areas, Cheryl Hadland, Managing Director at Tops Day Nurseries, joins our latest podcast episode to share her thoughts on creating a more sustainable learning environment.
From top tips on fostering a love for environmentally friendly activities, resources, and practices, to practical ways to help children (and practitioners) understand the benefits of this, Cheryl reveals some of the small changes that can make such a huge difference.
📌 To shop for sustainable resources, click here.
Listened and loved...2023-03-2922 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 15: Early Years Climate Action Plans with Cheryl HadlandCheryl Hadland, Founder, and Managing Director at Tops Day Nurseries, joins Alistair Bryce-Clegg in this episode to talk about climate action plans in the Early Years.
A climate action plan aims to address climate challenges, relevant to the individual setting based on factors such as the environment, financial impact, society and the community, plus so much more.
Throughout this episode Cheryl shares the benefits of having a plan for your setting, as well as tips and advice for achieving best practice.
📌 To shop for resources relevant to nature-based learning, click here.
Listene...2023-03-2520 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 14: Planting and eating sustainably with Cheryl HadlandCheryl Hadland, Founder, and Managing Director at Tops Day Nurseries, joins Alistair Bryce-Clegg in this episode to talk about practical ways to adopt a more sustainable approach in Early Years settings.
Cheryl shares her passion for planting and eating sustainably, sharing practical tips and guidance to overcome some of the challenges practitioners may experience when introducing planting and gardening in early years settings.
From nurturing plants indoors, to seeding and planting vegetables outdoors, Alistair and Cheryl touch on their many years of experience to inspire you with new ideas for your setting.
📌 To shop...2023-03-2319 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 13: Recycling and reusing in the Early Years with Cheryl HadlandCheryl Hadland, Founder, and Managing Director at Tops Day Nurseries, joins Alistair Bryce-Clegg in this episode to talk all things sustainability in the Early Years.
Cheryl explains the importance of recycling and reusing in the Early Years, sharing practical tips to help make your resources go further and, in return, adopt a more sustainable approach.
Talking passionately about recycling and reusing, Cheryl suggests that the idea of being thrifty with how nursery settings use, repair and reuse resources is something that should be celebrated.
📌 To shop for resources relevant to nature-based learning, click here. ...2023-03-1619 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 9: Understanding nature-based pedagogy with Niki BuchanThe great outdoors offers so many opportunities for interpretation and choice, providing children with enriching learning experiences. Throughout this podcast episode, nature pedagogue and author, Niki Buchan, explores the concept of nature-based learning in the early years.
Taking it right back to basics, Niki explains what nature-based practice is, answering questions such as what it looks like, and why it is so important for children and adults to connect with nature every single day!
📌 To shop for resources relevant to nature-based learning, click here.
🎙️ Listened and loved it? Sign-up here for exclusive f...2023-02-1617 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 8: Adopting a relaxed approach to risk-taking in the Early Years with Ellen SandseterThroughout this episode, Ellen Sandseter, researcher and expert in Children’s Risky Play, shares practical tips and guidance for adopting a more relaxed approach to children’s risk-taking in the Early Years.
Have you ever considered taking your next staff meeting outdoors to immerse yourself in some of those thrill-seeking adventures our children are encouraged to experience? Ellen suggests that this type of reflective practice is a simple (and enjoyable) way to become more comfortable in adopting a risk-taking approach to learning in the Early Years.
📌 To shop for resources relevant to learning through risk, click he...2023-02-0920 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 6: The benefits of risk-taking in the Early Years with Ellen SandseterThroughout this episode, Ellen Sandseter, researcher and expert in Children’s Risky Play, talks about the fundamental benefits of learning through risk in early childhood and why practitioners shouldn’t be afraid to implement an element of risk in their own practice too.
Ellen breaks this down into two parts, looking at the subjective experiences and the developmental benefits. She explains that the emotions children experience while taking risks will help develop their motor skills and competencies, self-confidence, awareness, and ability to risk assess, plus so much more! Listen to all this and more in our latest epis...2023-01-2616 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 5: An Introduction to learning through risk with Ellen SandseterHow much risk is too much risk? An Introduction to learning through risk with Ellen Sandseter.
Throughout this episode, Ellen Sandseter, researcher and expert in Children’s Risky Play, introduces the concept of learning through risk, also referred to as Risky Play, in early childhood.
Alistair and Ellen delve into the benefits of creating open-ended outdoor spaces that allow and encourage children to explore the risks they feel most comfortable with. Ellen shares how children from a very young age are aware of the environment surrounding them and that, when given the flexibility to do...2023-01-1922 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 4: Bringing the Outdoors into all areas of learning with Sue AsquithIn today’s episode, Alistair Bryce-Clegg, and International Educational Consultant Sue Asquith, talk about the value of using outdoor spaces in all areas of learning across the Early Years framework.
Sue and Alistair share practical ways to incorporate all areas of learning into your outdoor spaces to support children’s learning and development. From PSED, physical development to mathematics and language development, this episode uncovers why having a holistic approach to outdoor play is key.
📌 To shop for resources relevant to outdoor play in the Early Years, click here!
🎙️ Listened and loved it? Sign-up here2023-01-1224 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 3: Continuous provision in the outdoors with Sue AsquithIn this episode, Alistair Bryce-Clegg, and International Educational Consultant Sue Asquith, explore continuous provision in the outdoors. Alistair asks Sue the million-dollar question; how do we define it, and what should practitioners consider?
Sue explains the importance of open-ended learning opportunities. What resources are likely to inspire children in their early childhood? And what activities will spark curiosity without constant adult intervention? It is this that creates those magic learning moments!
📌 To shop for resources relevant to outdoor play in the Early Years, click here!
🎙️ Listened and loved it? Sign-up here for exclusive...2023-01-0522 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 2: Overcoming weather-related barriers in outdoor play with Sue AsquithIn this episode, Alistair Bryce-Clegg, and International Educational Consultant Sue Asquith, explore ways for practitioners to enable their outdoor areas to be spaces of continuous provision all year round.
Have you ever heard of the game Wellies on, wellies off? Listen to this podcast for lots of fun, play-based inspiration to enable you to create engaging and exciting outdoor learning opportunities.
📌 To shop for resources relevant to outdoor play in the Early Years, click here!
🎙️ Listened and loved it? Sign-up here for exclusive follow-up content and be the first to hear a...2022-12-2220 min
TTS Talking Early YearsEpisode 1: Outdoor play through the seasons with Sue AsquithIn our first ever TTS Talking Early Years podcast episode, Alistair Bryce-Clegg, and International Educational Consultant, Sue Asquith, discuss the importance of children having access to quality outdoor learning experiences all year round (no matter the weather!).
Sue shares practical guidance on how practitioners can achieve consistency and accessibility in outdoor play throughout the seasons.
📌 To shop for resources relevant to outdoor play in the Early Years, click here!
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(The views expr...2022-12-2217 min