Learning library Topics Child development and learning

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Child development and learning

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A girl lifting a wooden box
Article
Movement, confidence, and the developing child
Physical development is closely connected to children’s learning, independence and self-worth, yet it is often poorly understood. Dr Helen Bilton explains how careful observation and challenging outdoor play can help children develop body…
Girl with fall leaves
Article
Children don't hide from the weather
The article challenges common myths about outdoor learning, showing that meaningful play and development can happen in all weathers and in a wide range of spaces, from gardens to tarmac. Clare Devlin argues that thoughtful resources,…
Two primary school girls leaning over a desk and laughing together
Article
Outsmart the wiggles
Discover why children need big-body play to build core strength, balance, focus, and self-regulation – and how movement supports healthier learning.
Boy watering
Article
Bringing the outside in
This article explores how biophilic design in early years settings can support children’s wellbeing, attention, emotional regulation, and connection to nature by bringing natural materials and sensory experiences into indoor spaces.
A boy at an outdoor workspace
Article
Let the outdoors be your classroom
In this article, Eleanor Richfield explores the powerful role outdoor learning plays in early years education, highlighting how nature supports children’s physical, cognitive, social and emotional development. Through practical examples…
A child holding one small community playthings mini unit block
Article
Block play isn’t just for school
The article explores how block play at home supports creativity, problem-solving, concentration and social development across different ages. Drawing on real family experiences, Stella Louis shows that open-ended play can deepen learning,…
Children playing with loose parts in the woods
Article
Children’s play
Children’s surroundings provide a world for exploration, discovery, and enjoyment. Playing is what young children spend most of their time doing.
Close up shot of four toddlers engaged in role play.
Article
Little kitchens, big conversations
Thoughtfully designed role play environments can powerfully support communication and wider development. But what happens when design and pedagogy truly work together?
Closeup of two children laughing together as they play in the home corner
Article
Speak, play, learn
Behind the make-believe meals, children are building up their language skills.
Child and teacher in a calm corner
Video
The FlexiDen - Redefining regulation spaces
The journey to self-regulation begins with secure attachments. Watch this video to learn how through careful design, the FlexiDen can elevate your environment so that this life skill can begin.
Teacher interacts with child in FlexiDen
Article
Creating powerful learning spaces
In the early years, the environment is not merely a backdrop to learning but an active part of it. Find out how classrooms can better support learning, wellbeing, and development for children who are disadvantaged.
Two children in a solid wood regulation space laughing together.
Article
Every child needs a space to thrive
Inclusion is not an initiative; it is an ethos. It lives in the spaces we create and the relationships we nurture. Because when children feel safe, seen and valued, they are free to explore – and it is within that freedom that learning…