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Early Years 4 days ago

£1.5 Million Investment in Early Years Charities Across UK

The 1001 Critical Days Foundation has awarded £1.5 million in grants to seven charities supporting young children and families across England, Scotland and Wales. The funding recognises the vital importance of the period from conception to age two in laying foundations for lifelong health, wellbeing and learning.

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Supporting Parents: It's OK to Find Parenting Difficult
Early Years Jul 29, 2026

Supporting Parents: It's OK to Find Parenting Difficult

Many parents struggle to admit when they find parenting difficult or unenjoyable. This piece explores why acknowledging these challenges is the first step towards accessing vital early help and preventing family difficulties from escalating into crisis.

Five Tips for an Affordable and Enjoyable Summer Break with Children
Family Support & Early Help Jul 24, 2026

Five Tips for an Affordable and Enjoyable Summer Break with Children

The summer holidays offer families a valuable opportunity to spend quality time together without breaking the bank. From exploring local parks to utilising council-run family hubs, there are numerous ways to keep children engaged and supported. Discover practical approaches to balancing fun and affordability during the six-week break.

James Hempsall: Ending the 'making do' culture in school holiday childcare
Early Years Jul 22, 2026

James Hempsall: Ending the 'making do' culture in school holiday childcare

For too long, families have faced the annual struggle of patching together adequate childcare during the school holidays, often settling for arrangements that are inconvenient, expensive, or insufficient. James Hempsall argues that a cultural shift is underway, with school-age childcare providers leading the charge toward a future where parents can say 'can do' rather than merely 'make do'.

Tens of Thousands of Disadvantaged Children with SEND Missing Out on Holiday Activities
SEND Jul 22, 2026

Tens of Thousands of Disadvantaged Children with SEND Missing Out on Holiday Activities

The Children's Commissioner for England has warned that tens of thousands of children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) from low-income families are being excluded from government-funded holiday activity schemes. The findings highlight significant barriers preventing vulnerable children from accessing enriching opportunities during school breaks.

Community Donors Step Up to Save Toddler Groups as Funding Squeeze Bites
Early Years Jul 20, 2026

Community Donors Step Up to Save Toddler Groups as Funding Squeeze Bites

Stay and play sessions for young children are facing severe financial strain as rising costs make grants increasingly competitive. Individual donors and local families are now stepping in to keep these vital early years services afloat, ensuring toddlers and parents continue to have access to essential community support.

Why I took unpaid leave to cover the summer holidays: a parent's story
Education Jul 17, 2026

Why I took unpaid leave to cover the summer holidays: a parent's story

With the six-week summer break presenting a significant challenge for working families, one parent shares why they opted for a month of unpaid leave. Like many others, they combined organised childcare and annual leave to manage the gap between school terms, highlighting the pressing need for affordable holiday provision.

Summer holidays reignite the annual screen time family debate
Family Support & Early Help Jul 17, 2026

Summer holidays reignite the annual screen time family debate

As the school holidays begin, families across the country are facing the familiar challenge of managing children's screen time. This light-hearted cartoon captures the relatable tensions that arise when routine shifts and digital devices become a focal point of household debates.

DfE launches match-funding scheme for Best Start Family Hubs
Policy Jul 9, 2026

DfE launches match-funding scheme for Best Start Family Hubs

The Department for Education has unveiled a new initiative inviting businesses, charities and social investors to match local authority funding for Best Start Family Hubs. The scheme aims to bolster early help provision by leveraging philanthropic investment alongside public money.