Happy Days Nursery Podcast - Early Years

In our final episode of this series, we’re focusing on how to build a genuine love of reading at home, in a way that feels natural and enjoyable. We’re exploring how stories can go beyond the pages of a book and become part of children’s everyday play and experiences. Topics we cover in this episode: - Beyond books - Sparking curiosity - Everyday storytelling - Confidence & communication - Mak...

In our last episode we discussed the benefits or reading, so this time we’re diving into what actually makes a great children’s book, because not all stories connect in the same way. Topics we cover in this episode: - Where to find a good book - Making it interactive - Starting early - Choosing the book for your child

As it’s the National Year of Reading, we’re talking about something that feels really simple… but is incredibly powerful, reading with children.  Whether it’s a bedtime story, a favourite book you’ve read a hundred times, or even just talking through pictures together, those small moments can have a huge impact on a child’s development. So in this episode, we’re going to explore why reading matter...

In this episode, we’re talking directly to parents and carers about how to keep children safe  in the sun, whether you’re at home in the garden, heading to the park, or packing for a holiday. Joining us is the knowledgeable Marie from SKCIN, a charity doing incredible work around  skin cancer prevention and sun safety education.  Key Topics covered Home routines Holidays and days out Safe clothing...

Welcome back to the Happy Days Nursery podcast. This is episode one of a special mini season all about how to keep children safe in the sun. As the brighter weather begins to arrive and children naturally spend more time outdoors, it’s the perfect time to talk about how early years settings can build sun safety into everyday practice in a way that feels simple, effective and supportive for childre...

Ready to try baby massage at home? In this hands-on episode, Alice and internationally respected expert Peter Walker guide you through exactly how to begin, safely, confidently, and without overthinking it. Peter shares everything parents need to know, including:• When to start baby massage• How much oil to use and the best types to choose• The ideal environment (and how to make it work in real li...

Baby massage isn’t just soothing, it’s science. In this episode, Alice is joined by world-leading expert Peter Walker , author and founder of Developmental Baby Massage , whose techniques are now taught by over 25,000 teachers worldwide . With more than 50 years of experience , Peter breaks down why gentle touch is one of the most powerful ways to support your child’s emotional and physical develo...

To wrap up our childcare funding series, Alice and Karen answer your most frequently asked questions, from splitting hours between providers to self-employed eligibility and support for families on Universal Credit . They also cover extra help like Tax-Free Childcare , Disability Access Funding , and Early Years Pupil Premium, because there’s often more support available than you might realise.

Ever wondered what your childcare funding actually covers and what it doesn’t? Alice and Karen unpack the details of how funding works in nurseries, including what’s included in your 15 or 30 free hours , and what parents may still pay for (like meals, nappies, or enrichment activities). They also explain how the SHINE package at Happy Days makes things simpler for families, and how you can combin...

Ready to apply for your childcare funding? In this step-by-step guide, Alice and Karen explain exactly how to apply for your funded childcare hours , where to go, and what deadlines you need to know. Find out how to get your 30 hours code , when to apply, and why reconfirming your details matters. They also share tips on what to do if your circumstances change , plus key advice on grace periods an...

Confused about who qualifies for childcare funding? You’re not alone! In this episode, Alice and Karen break down everything parents in England need to know about free childcare hours , from 9 months to school age. Learn the differences between 15 hours and 30 hours funding , what “working parent” eligibility means, and how nurseries can “stretch” your hours across the year. Perfect for parents ex...

Teaching your baby or child to swim doesn’t require special equipment or a big pool, it begins with simple, playful steps you can take at home. In this final episode of the Happy Days Nursery Podcast – Learn to Swim from Birth mini-series, Alice is joined by Jemma, Territory Manager at Water Babies , to share practical tips on how to teach babies and children to swim with confidence. From bath-tim...

Swimming is more than a life skill, it’s a powerful way to support your baby or child’s growth from day one. In this episode of the Happy Days Nursery Podcast , Alice is joined by Jemma, Territory Manager at Water Babies , to uncover the wide-ranging benefits of learning to swim from birth . Discover how swimming can boost physical strength, coordination, brain development, emotional confidence, r...

Water safety for babies and children goes far beyond swimming lessons, it’s about creating awareness and building lifesaving habits from the very beginning. In this episode of the Happy Days Nursery Podcast , Alice is joined by Jemma, Territory Manager at Water Babies , to share expert advice on why teaching water safety from birth is so important. From bath time routines and paddling pools to hol...

Men in Childcare: Breaking the Stereotypes Why are there still so few men in childcare? And how can we challenge the outdated stereotypes that stand in the way? In this episode of the Happy Days Nursery Podcast , Alice is joined by Jay, a Senior Nursery Manager at Happy Days and passionate advocate for diversity in early years. Together, they explore Jay’s personal journey into childcare, the myth...

Boogie Mites: Let’s Tap A Word (Bonus Episode) We’re revisiting Season 4 with a special bonus episode featuring Tasha from Boogie Mites. Discover how Let’s Tap A Word (a fun, rhythmic song) helps children develop early literacy and communication skills while preparing for school. Alice and Tasha break down: What Let’s Tap A Word is all about Why music boosts school readiness How to tap along at ho...

In this episode, Alice is joined by John, Talent Acquisition Lead at Happy Days Nurseries, to reveal why Happy Days is the ultimate place to launch and grow your career in early years education. Discover how Happy Days supports your journey every step of the way with opportunities for career progression, flexible working patterns perfect for parents, a 50% childcare discount, paid Christmas closur...

Thinking about starting your career in early years education? In this episode, Alice and John dive deep into the recruitment process and share essential tips on how to shine as a candidate. Discover how to craft a standout CV that highlights your passion for working with children, plus learn how to ace your childcare interview with confidence and professionalism. John also explains the importance ...

Curious about working with children but not sure where to begin? In this episode, Alice and John break down all the ways you can kickstart your career in early years — from apprenticeships and college courses to volunteering and on-the-job training. John shares what qualifications (if any) you really need, why experience doesn’t have to be a barrier, and how Happy Days can help you build a career ...

In this episode, Alice chats with John, Talent Acquisition Lead at Happy Days Nurseries, about why working in early years is such an amazing and rewarding career. John shares what makes it so special — from shaping children’s futures to feeling a real sense of purpose. They dive into what kind of people thrive in early years, how Happy Days supports everyone regardless of background, and why it’s ...

In this episode, Alice is joined by Nicola, Nursery Manager at Happy Days Verwood, to explore the importance of smooth transitions between rooms in early years settings. Nicola shares her expertise on how thoughtful transitions support children’s emotional wellbeing, independence, and development. They discuss how Happy Days Nurseries approach room-to-room transitions with care and structure, how...

Ever wondered who your child bonds with most at nursery — and why it matters so much? In this warm and insightful episode, Alice is back with Nicola, Nursery Manager at Happy Days Verwood, to explore the key person approach and how it supports children through every stage of their nursery journey. We’ll chat about: What exactly a key person is — and why every child is assigned one Building strong,...

Ready to turn those first‑day jitters into confident smiles? In this chatty deep‑dive, Alice and Nicola — Nursery Manager at Happy Days Verwood —unpack exactly how settling‑in sessions work and why they’re such a game‑changer for children and parents alike. We’ll cover: What a settling‑in session actually looks like – step‑by‑step, from hello to home time. The science of feeling safe – why short,...

Welcome to the Final Episode of the Season! In this season, we've been sharing everything you need to know to prepare your child for nursery — helping to make that first day feel a little less daunting. In this episode, we're taking a closer look at what a typical day at nursery looks like. We'll talk about daily routines, how food and mealtimes work, and much more to help you feel ful...

Welcome Back to the Happy Days Nursery Podcast! This season is all about preparing your child for nursery and ensuring you have all the essential information you need. In this episode, we're focusing on how to mentally prepare for the transition to nursery. We'll also answer important questions about key persons and funding, giving you the knowledge and confidence to support your child eve...