Verbalising mathematical discoveries and observations during outdoor play helps children process each concept more deeply. As educators and parents we can support children in growing their mathematical language. “Knowing the right question or prompt to give at the right time in the right way to different children takes time, experience and practice to develop,” writes Lynda Keith. Lynda has some great insights and advice.

Learning how to interact positively with others is a vital developmental task of early childhood. However, many teachers are reporting a worrying increase in social problems such as bullying, lack of problem-solving skills, and anti-social behaviour.

Current trends, such as the increase of media and technology in the lives of young children, combined with fewer opportunities for play and interaction with others, are feeding this widespread problem which Diane Levin has characterized as “Compassion Deficit Disorder”.

No, this is not another label to slap on children’s behavioural difficulties. Rather, it is an indictment on a society where childhood is not valued and supported. It is vital that children have real life, meaningful experiences right from the start that help them to learn compassion and empathy. Parents and educators are in a unique position to curb this damaging trend. Read Diane Levin’s article.

“Do we really want our children to simply do as they are told without asking? Well yes – sometimes we would. But for a child to become successful in life, surely we want them to take some control of regulating their own choices and behaviours,” writes Ali McClure, author of Making it Better for Boys. “We would love our children to become self-regulated, happy individuals, but do some of the strategies we use in our early years settings actually backfire in this regard?”

Ali McClure will be running a full day course: “From Stickers to Self-Regulation”, for early years and KS1 practitioners on 12 November at the Community Playthings factory in East Sussex. Read Ali's article and find out more about her training.

Unstructured time gives children the opportunity to practice problem solving and to develop motivational and creative skills that they will need later in life. Adults need to resist the temptation to provide a constant barrage of stimulation and entertainment for children. It’s okay to be bored.

Is there time for constructive boredom in your classroom? Read the article.

“You can find magic wherever you look. Sit back and relax, all you need is a book.” –  Dr Seuss

Books have a tremendous influence on many areas of learning. They can introduce themes of friendship, diversity, and overcoming challenge, thus helping to develop character. They can expand children’s knowledge of the world, other people, cultures and traditions, or they can introduce imaginary themes. Here's how the book corner can fulfil many of the EYFS learning and development requirements.