How Imagination Builds Reading Comprehension
When children understand a story deeply, they are doing far more than reading words on a page. They are noticing clues, predicting what might happen next, working out how characters feel and filling in information that isn’t directly stated. This is
Inclusive Play: What It Really Looks Like and Why It Matters for Every Child
April is Autism Awareness Month. But increasingly families and professionals are asking for something more meaningful than awareness: acceptance - ensuring that children of all abilities feel welcomed, understood and supported in everyday life. This sense of belonging should extend
Children and AI: What Parents Need to Know
What is AI and how are children using it? AI is rapidly becoming a part of children’s daily lives, and they may come across it in many different ways, including: Homework and research tools Voice assistants and smart speakers Games with interactive or responsive
Before Children Read Words, They Read Meaning
When we think about children learning to read, it’s easy to focus on letters, sounds and decoding. Phonics, print and books all matter, but true reading comprehension begins earlier, with understanding meaning. Before children can read words, they are already
Talking to Your Child about our Difficult World
In today’s intricate and often distressing world, parents and caregivers are tasked with the significant challenge of discussing global issues with children. Our very own, Dr. Amanda Gummer recently presented a webinar (embedded below) which provides invaluable advice on how
A Guide to Different Types of Play for Parents
Play is more than just a fun part of childhood, it's essential for children's physical, cognitive, and emotional development. Children don’t need to be taught to play, they do it naturally as a way to explore the world, experiment with
How to Set Learning Goals for Children for the Year Ahead
At the start of a new year, we might be setting ourselves resolutions about fitness or wellbeing, but it’s also a great time to support children in setting their own learning goals. This doesn’t mean adding pressure or creating strict
Best Musical Toys & Apps for Children
Music has a special way of weaving itself into childhood memories, from lullabies at bedtime to impromptu kitchen discos. Beyond the fun, it plays a powerful role in children’s learning and development, helping to boost communication, creativity and confidence, while
What to Do When Your Child Asks If Santa Is Real
For many families, Santa is a big part of the magic of Christmas. From the mince pie and carrot left out on Christmas Eve to the anticipation of what might appear in stockings or under the tree the next morning.
Helping Children Thrive: Using the Balanced Play Pyramid in the Classroom
Most teachers instinctively know that play is vital for children’s development. It helps them build friendships, burn off energy, and explore ideas in ways that textbooks alone can’t achieve. But with growing demands on curriculum time, increased use of technology,