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Early Years 1 month ago

Studies Find Shared Play Strengthens Family Bonds

New research demonstrates that shared play between parents and children serves as a powerful catalyst for strengthening emotional and physical connections. The findings highlight the importance of play-based interactions in supporting family relationships and early childhood development.

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Healthy diet costs 85% of income for poorest families as child obesity rises
Early Years Jun 10, 2026

Healthy diet costs 85% of income for poorest families as child obesity rises

New research reveals that families on the lowest incomes must spend 85 per cent of their disposable income to afford a government-recommended healthy diet. The findings coincide with increasing levels of obesity and tooth decay among Reception-aged children, highlighting the direct link between poverty and early childhood health outcomes.

Documentary showcases council respite support for young carers in Walthamstow
Family Support & Early Help Jun 9, 2026

Documentary showcases council respite support for young carers in Walthamstow

A new documentary highlights the vital work supporting young carers in Walthamstow, where council-led activities provide a rare break for children caring for family members. With over one million young carers in the UK averaging just 12 years old, the film calls for greater recognition of this hidden army and the local authority services that sustain them.

Bereaved pupils need sustained support, not just crisis intervention
Schools Jun 4, 2026

Bereaved pupils need sustained support, not just crisis intervention

Children who have experienced bereavement require consistent, long-term support within educational settings rather than episodic crisis interventions. This approach recognises that grief is a progressive journey that significantly impacts attendance, attainment and wellbeing. Without continuity of care, vulnerable pupils risk falling through gaps in provision and escalating to statutory services.

One year on: Achievements at the 1,001 Critical Days Foundation
Early Years Jun 2, 2026

One year on: Achievements at the 1,001 Critical Days Foundation

Dr Matt Price reflects on twelve months of championing the vital period from conception to age two. The foundation has advanced research and grants to support infant mental health and strengthen early family relationships during this critical developmental window.

Picturebook Reviews: Classic Stories Reimagined for Early Years
Education Jun 2, 2026

Picturebook Reviews: Classic Stories Reimagined for Early Years

Meg Barclay reviews a curated selection of picturebooks that transform classic stories into accessible, visually rich experiences for younger children. These titles combine imaginative storytelling with striking illustrations to support early literacy and language development. The reviews highlight texts particularly suited to shared reading in nurseries, family hubs and early years settings.

Fostering Independence: Supporting Children to Do Things for Themselves
Early Years Jun 1, 2026

Fostering Independence: Supporting Children to Do Things for Themselves

Encouraging children to take responsibility for everyday tasks is fundamental to building confidence and essential life skills. This approach, central to effective Early Help provision, supports school readiness and long-term resilience whilst strengthening family relationships.

Merseyside Borough Bucks National Trend with Early Intervention to Prevent Youth Unemployment
Family Support & Early Help May 30, 2026

Merseyside Borough Bucks National Trend with Early Intervention to Prevent Youth Unemployment

A Merseyside local authority is reversing the UK's rising youth unemployment trend through personalised early intervention programmes targeting under-16s at risk of becoming NEET. By identifying vulnerable pupils before they leave compulsory education and providing tailored support, the council is successfully preventing disengagement and keeping young people connected to positive futures.

BBC investigation exposes lethal baby-sleep advice from unqualified 'experts'
Safeguarding May 5, 2026

BBC investigation exposes lethal baby-sleep advice from unqualified 'experts'

Secret filming by the BBC has revealed alarming guidance being given to parents by self-described baby sleep experts, putting infants at risk of serious harm or death. Medical professionals have warned that the unregulated advice contradicts NHS safe sleep protocols and creates significant safeguarding concerns.

Working with parents: Saying ‘no’
Family Support & Early Help May 1, 2026

Working with parents: Saying ‘no’

It is possible to remain a warm parent while also setting boundaries for your child – and doing so will teach them important life skills. By Annette Rawstrone

Picturebook Reviews: Helping Young Children Navigate Big Feelings
Early Years May 1, 2026

Picturebook Reviews: Helping Young Children Navigate Big Feelings

In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, reviewer Meg Barclay explores a curated selection of picturebooks designed to help young children recognise and manage complex emotions. These resources offer valuable tools for parents, carers and early years practitioners seeking to support emotional literacy and wellbeing during the foundation years.