Twinkl Talks: EYFS

What does child poverty really look like, and how can we work towards a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive? In this episode of the Twinkl Talks EYFS Podcast, we're joined by Baroness Ruth Lister to explore the realities of child poverty, its impact on children and families, and the importance of understanding the challenges faced by those experiencing poverty. Drawing on he...

What is the Montessori approach, and how can its principles support children's learning and development in the Early Years? In this episode of the Twinkl Talks EYFS Podcast, we're joined by Lucy Gibson, Montessori consultant, radio host and founder of Positively Simple, to explore the philosophy behind Montessori education and what it means for young children and Early Years practitioners....

What role do Reception classes play in children's early education, and how can we ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive as they begin their school journey? In this episode of the Twinkl Talks EYFS Podcast, Michelle is joined by Professor Eva Lloyd, Emeritus Professor of Early Childhood at the University of East London, to explore Reception classes in the UK and their place within th...

In this episode of Twinkl Talks EYFS, we’re exploring the world of digital wellbeing in the early years with Samantha Dholakia. Technology is a big part of children’s lives, but what does healthy digital wellbeing look like for young children? We explore the opportunities technology can bring to children’s learning and wellbeing, as well as practical ways practitioners can introduce healthy digita...

Screens are a big part of children’s lives, but what does this mean for children in the early years? Are screens a helpful tool, a potential concern, or perhaps a bit of both? In this episode of the Twinkl Talks EYFS Podcast, Michelle is joined by Professor Sam Wass to explore the complex relationship between young children and screens. Together, they discuss how screen use can affect children’s d...

Working in Private Early Years comes with plenty of rewarding moments, but also lots of questions, challenges and situations that can leave you wondering, “What would you do?” In this episode of the Twinkl Talks EYFS Podcast, we’re answering some of your Private Early Years questions and exploring the realities of working in nurseries and preschool settings. From finding your spark again when your...

What does truly inclusive practice look like in the Early Years? In this episode of the Twinkl Talks EYFS Podcast, we’re joined by Desriee Asomuyide, founder of Little Omo, to explore representation, belonging and how we can create learning environments where every child feels seen and valued. Desriee shares the experiences that led her to recognise a gap in representation within children’s toys a...

Every child’s brain develops differently, but understanding what development can look like can help Early Years practitioners feel more confident in recognising and responding to individual needs. In this episode of the Twinkl Talks EYFS Podcast, we explore neurodevelopment in the Early Years, beginning with an overview of how the brain typically develops during early childhood and some of the dif...

In this episode of the Twinkl Talks EYFS Podcast, Michelle is joined by leading Early Years consultant and author Dr Alistair Bryce-Clegg for an honest and thought-provoking conversation about play, pressure and the future of Early Years. Together, they explore what young children need most from the adults supporting them, including care, empathy and a strong understanding of child development. Th...

As the new school year begins, there’s a lot happening behind the scenes to make sure children, families and staff feel ready for the weeks ahead.   In this episode of the Twinkl Talks EYFS Podcast, we explore the realities of going back to school and welcoming a new cohort into the Early Years. From INSET days and home visits to paperwork, outdoor provision and those all-important first connectio...

In this episode of the Twinkl Talks EYFS Podcast, Shána is joined by Lisa Danahy for a powerful and reflective conversation about the realities of educator wellbeing across the UK and the US. Together, they explore the growing pressures faced by educators today, from increasing expectations and accountability to the emotional demands of supporting children and families in complex times. Lisa share...

In this episode of the Twinkl Talks EYFS Podcast, Shána is joined by Jo Morton Brown for an honest and compassionate conversation about supporting children’s emotional wellbeing, both in the setting and at home. Together, they explore why practitioner wellbeing and healthy boundaries matter, celebrate the incredible role parents and carers play in children’s lives, and share practical tips for enc...

Continuous provision has always been at the heart of high-quality early years practice, but how has our understanding of it evolved? What does effective continuous provision look like across the birth-to-five age range, and how can practitioners ensure it truly meets the needs of the children in their care? In this episode of the Twinkl Talks EYFS Podcast, Laura is joined by Charlotte and Georgia...

Join the Twinkl Private Early Years team as they discuss two key aspects of working in early years settings: delegating tasks effectively and building positive relationships with parents and carers. In this episode, they chat about: Why effective delegation is important for a well-functioning team Tips for sharing responsibilities with confidence Building trust and maintaining clear communication...

Join Shána and Sandra Beale as they explore the importance of STEM in the early years and how practitioners can bring science, technology, engineering, arts, and maths to life through play. In this episode, they chat about: What STEM means in an early years context The benefits of introducing STEM through play-based learning Simple, engaging STEM activities that can be used in your setting How to...

Join Shána Walker and Mike Gardener from The Oracy Shift as he explores the importance of oracy in the Early Years and why the foundations of communication, language and talk are so crucial for children’s future success. In this episode, he discusses: Why oracy begins in the Early Years and the importance of getting it right from the start The four key areas of oracy and how they can be nurtured t...

Join Shána Walker and Mienna Jones as they discuss the realities of setting up and running a nursery business. In this episode, they chat about: Where to begin, from researching the market and creating a business plan to finding the right premises Understanding Ofsted registration, policies, safeguarding, and legal requirements Managing budgets, funding, staffing, and the true costs of opening a n...

Twinkl Private Early Years answers your early years practitioners problems! In this episode, we’re exploring sensory play for all and discussing how sensory experiences can support every child’s learning, development and wellbeing. This episode covers: What sensory play is and why it’s so important in the early years The benefits of sensory play for children’s development and wellbeing How to crea...

Join Shána Walker and Kate Ball from Mini First Aid as they discuss the importance of teaching first aid skills from a young age. In this episode, they chat about: Why first aid education is valuable for children of all ages The different classes and programmes available for children How first aid can be taught in an engaging, age-appropriate way Building children’s confidence to respond in an eme...

Join Shána Walker and Kate Ball from Mini First Aid as they discuss everything early years practitioners need to know about first aid in childcare settings. In this episode, they chat about: The differences between nursery-based first aid and school-based first aid Understanding Ofsted and HSE guidance and what it means for your setting Practical hints and tips for managing accidents and incidents...

Join Shána Walker and Kate Ball from Mini First Aid as they discuss the importance of allergy awareness and management in early years settings. In this episode, they chat about: Kate's story and how Mini First Aid came to support families and childcare professionals What early years practitioners need to know about managing allergies on a day-to-day basis Recent allergy updates, including Bene...

Join Shána Walker and Mienna Jones from HappyCrew Childcare as they discuss the realities of starting and running a childcare business. In this episode, they chat about: Where to begin, from Ofsted registration and safeguarding to qualifications, first aid, and setting fees Understanding planning permissions and the processes involved Navigating Food Standards Agency requirements Balancing caring...

Twinkl Private Early Years answers your early years practitioners problems! This episode covers: What are the benefits of sensory play? Favourite sensory play activities from the team Tips and advice for creating engaging sensory play experiences Simple ways to support sensory exploration in your setting and at home We’ll also be sharing helpful blogs, resources, and activity ideas to support you...

Join us for an open and thoughtful conversation on supporting neurodiversity in leadership, and why it matters now more than ever in early years and education settings. This episode includes discussion of personal experiences and sensitive topics that some listeners may find difficult. In this episode, we explore how embracing neurodiverse perspectives can strengthen leadership, enrich school cult...

Join Shána, Matt and Lucy as they explore the vital role leadership plays in driving success in early years education. In this engaging and reflective conversation, they share their personal journeys and professional insights, unpacking what strong leadership looks like in practice and how it can shape outcomes for children in the early years. This episode offers honest reflections, practical idea...