At least someone was listening
Has there ever been a U-turn on Government childcare policy as great as this? After six long months of campaigning, [...]
The waiting game
Leading lights from the early years sector have been out in force at a succession of events this week – [...]
McDonalds to replace Happy Meal toy with book-‘ba da ba ba baa, I'm lovin' it’
McDonalds has long been criticised for offering free toys in its meals to entice children, but the fast food chain [...]Latest Blogs
NDNA prompts free-range debate
I found this year’s annual NDNA conference particularly thought-provoking and this sentiment was echoed by all of those I spoke to during the lunch and coffee breaks. While the state of the business always provides the context for the event, this year delegates were also encouraged to reflect deeply on the health of the nation’s children. A common theme among many of the speakers was, what role can nurseries play to give children the freedoms that enhance their mental and physical wellbeing? Read More
Show me the nurseries!
It’s easy to become immune to stories of nurseries closing, there seems to be so many of them. But it’s now happening in my ‘back yard’, which I admit has made me sit up and take notice.
I’m shocked to hear that the nursery at South Bermondsey Children’s Centre has been earmarked for closure by the council (along with Bishop’s House Children’s Centre, also in the London borough Southwark – Nursery World, 2 April). I understand that money is tight and cuts need to be made but closing a ‘jewel in the community’ – and this is a socially deprived area that needs all the assets it can get – has surely got to be the wrong choice.
Who’s the Daddy?
I approached watching the first episode of ‘Daddy Daycare’ on Channel 4 last week with some trepidation.
Television’s portrayal of nurseries is rarely positive, usually concentrating on ‘nightmare’ settings viewed through an undercover reporter’s camera.
A family affair
The annual conference and dinner held for staff by nursery group Children 1st @ Breedon House certainly delivered a feel-good factor. With the recent acquisition of two nurseries bringing more staff into the fold, the main hospitality room at the Hilton Sheffield Park Hotel was noticeably packed this year. It was particularly good to see the extended Mason family all in attendance, including founder Margaret Mason and her husband Hugh. Read More
