Teach Early Years - Issue 14.2

Our research indicates that less than half (48%) of parents believe it’s completely their responsibility to ensure their children are toilet-trained. Others are needlessly anxious if their child isn’t able to write the name or know all their letters when they start Reception – neither expectation is correct. The science clearly indicates that for good bowel and bladder health, children should be out of nappies between 18 and 30 months. I didn’t know that – did you? TAKING ACTION The good news is that the early years sector has begun to address the lack of clarity of expectations with a collaborative effort. A group of leading experts, education and care providers, and parenting groups have come together for the first time to produce a simple, single definition for parents, nursery settings, childminders and schools. Startingreception .co.uk is a great starting point for a conversation, with links to a wealth of practical advice for parents and carers who might be struggling. We need to find a way to openly discuss the importance of parenting without sounding like an interfering “nanny” state. Nobody is suggesting that if a child is struggling, parents should beat themselves up or think they will be behind forever. Children can catch up; it just takes longer and The best nurseries cannot alone support children’s development HELP FOR HOME Share these ideas for parents to try with their children… Parents who have concerns about their child’s talking or understanding can use this checker with lots of resources for things to practise: progress- checker.speechandlanguage.org. uk . There’s also plenty of advice at Startingreception .co.uk and on the Dingley’s Promise website: dingley.org.uk Toilet training! There are great tips to help get those nappies off available from the experts at ERIC – visit eric.org.uk/potty-training Encourage children to practise independence skills like putting on their shoes – the NHS has clear suggestions to make it easier: tinyurl.com/TEYnhsDS The World Health Organisation provides clear guidance on healthy screen-time habits. Visit tinyurl.com/TEYwhoST Parents can access tips on having simple conversations with their child at tinyurl.com/ TEYnhsCNV There’s plenty of advice on implementing healthy routines and ensuring children get enough sleep at tinyurl.com/TEYbbcBDT The singing dentist can help parents with toothbrushing! Visit tinyurl.com/TEYbbcTBR If a child struggles to climb stairs one foot at a time, using the wall for support, parents can try these ideas for promoting healthy movement: tinyurl.com/ TEYystHM Share the strategies your setting uses to develop fine motor skills: tinyurl.com/TEYgovFMS Promote the importance of playing with others. Here are some great ideas for parents to try: tinyurl.com/TEYbbcIG Further complicating matters is a significant misalignment in how school readiness is defined and measured at a policy level. While parents and school governors generally understand “school ready” to mean the skills a child needs when they start Reception year, the new government target for 75% being school ready – part of the Best Start in Life strategy and the new Opportunity Mission – is assessed at the end of Reception. These mixed-up measures of two different developmental points overlook the immense challenge faced by staff, who find themselves on the front lines of a crisis. It is time to accept a fundamental truth: parents are the first and most important educators of children. The best nurseries cannot alone support children’s development without the engagement of informed parents, aided by knowledgeable and accessible services where needed. Yet, many new mums and dads are struggling, increasingly isolated from crucial sources of advice. We’ve seen a 40% reduction in health visitors since 2015 and the closure of integrated services provision through Sure Start centres. While some blame the impact of the cost-of-living crisis and the shadow of the pandemic, frustration among teachers is growing, with more telling us that the phrase “they are a Covid baby” has become an excuse. costs more. This isn’t about blaming or shaming; it’s about empowering parents and giving children the strongest possible start. There’s ample opportunity available for parents to support their children’s development. Simple, everyday actions like putting down the phone to pick up a book and reading together, playing a game, or having a simple two-way “serve and return” conversation (think Wimbledon!). And yes, getting those nappies off. By working together, we can lay a strong foundation for every child’s future success, unlocking their potential and saving billions for the taxpayer. It’s time to move from ambition to action. Find out more about Kindred 2 ’s work at kindredsquared.org.uk Teachearlyyears.com 33