Literacy

As libraries reopen, the Summer Reading Challenge begins

Local libraries across the UK have begun to reopen as lockdown restrictions, triggered by the pandemic, gradually relax. With this in mind, I began to gather up our library books (those I’d borrowed for Daisy, and my own), ready to return them when I had an opportunity. As I collected the books together, I reflected… Continue reading As libraries reopen, the Summer Reading Challenge begins

Understanding the World

Take your child for a virtual walk; a guest post by Daisy’s Dad.

The COVID-19 pandemic lockdown presents unprecedented challenges for children in the UK. Most of their comforting routines have been disrupted; many have disappeared completely. Familiar destinations such as schools, cafes and soft-play centres are off-limits and visits to beloved friends and relatives are forbidden. Even with some restrictions now lifted, travel is often limited and… Continue reading Take your child for a virtual walk; a guest post by Daisy’s Dad.

Understanding the World

Where am I? A fun activity for grandchildren during ‘lockdown’; Guest Blog by Daisy’s Grandpa

It’s been eight weeks since we last spent time with Daisy.  We’ve learned, like so many grandparents, to navigate our way around Zoom, FaceTime and other ways of keeping in touch by sight and sound.  We all know that none of these technologies are any substitute for that hug administered in a tangle of bendy… Continue reading Where am I? A fun activity for grandchildren during ‘lockdown’; Guest Blog by Daisy’s Grandpa

Understanding the World

Making the most of the daily walk with your young children

Now that we're all having to settle into a very different daily routine it means that we, like most grandparents, cannot spend time with our granddaughter.  So instead of describing activities that I've done with Daisy I'd like to share some of my ideas that Daisy's parents are using at home with Daisy.  I hope… Continue reading Making the most of the daily walk with your young children

Expressive Arts & Design

Bringing The Learning Play Into Your Home

Yesterday, through the wonders of modern technology I was able to watch Daisy playing at home with Mummy and Daddy.  When Daisy plays at home, her play is different from the play she has when she's at a playgroup or with the childminder.  In Early Years environments, activities usually have 'zones' for different types of… Continue reading Bringing The Learning Play Into Your Home

Physical Development

Helping your grandchildren from a distance

I've realised that I need to change the focus of my blog.  It’s hard to accept but soon many grandparents will not be able to have close contact time with their grandchildren.  We’re used to being the reliable backstop, not the vulnerable ones aren’t we? I don't expect it to be long before schools, children's… Continue reading Helping your grandchildren from a distance