Blog list (6)
How to Find A Nurturing Early Years Setting, Save Childcare Costs and Enjoy More Benefits
on 2024-11-17 06:40:05
by
Rose Dias
Posted in
Blog
Family Support
Childcare on Domestic Premises vs. Nursery: The Showdown!by Rose Dias 17/11/2024 For working parents, childcare on domestic premises is like discovering the secret sauce of childcare options. This choice often provides a nurturing, home-like environment with lower child-to-adult ratios, ensuring that children get the VIP treatment they deserve while parents conquer the work world. Plus, academic research backs this up—higher ratios can turn a nursery into a circus, with too many kids per adult making it tough to manage behaviour effectively. Smaller ratios mean more personalized attention, better cognitive and socio-emotional development, higher quality interactions between children and caregivers, fewer accidents, and improved academic outcomesChildcare on Domestic PremisesHome-Like Environment: Provides a cozy, home-like setting that can make children feel more comfortable and secure.Lower Ratios: Typically offers lower child-to-adult ratios, allowing for more individualized attention and care.Flexibility: Often more flexible with hours and can cater to the specific needs of each child and family.Personalized Care: Caregivers can tailor activities and routines to suit the developmental needs and interests of each child.Strong Relationships: Children can form strong, lasting bonds with their caregivers due to the smaller, more intimate setting.NurseryStructured Environment: Offers a more structured environment with a set curriculum and routine, which can be beneficial for preparing children for school.Socialization: Provides ample opportunities for children to interact with peers, helping them develop social skills.Resources and Facilities: Often equipped with a wide range of resources and facilities, such as playgrounds, educational toys, and learning materials.Qualified Staff: Staff are usually trained in early childhood education and development, ensuring a high standard of care and education.Regulated Setting: Nurseries are subject to strict regulations and inspections, ensuring a safe and high-quality environment for children.The VerdictChoosing between childcare on domestic premises and a nursery depends on your child's needs and your family's preferences. If you value a home-like environment with personalized care and flexibility, childcare on domestic premises might be the best fit. On the other hand, if you prefer a structured setting with ample socialization opportunities and a wide range of resources, a nursery could be the way to go.For more detailed information, you can check out this systematic review and meta-analysis on child-staff ratios in early childhood education and care settings and their impact on child outcomes. You can also read more about childcare on domestic premises and nurseries.Childcare Choices vs. Workplace Nursery Scheme: The Showdown!According to a McKinsey survey, parents with children aged five and under identified affordability and quality as their biggest childcare challenges. Hopefully below information will give you a better solution.Childcare Choices: Childcare Choices is like an all-you-can-eat buffet of childcare support. It includes:Tax-Free Childcare: The government adds £2 for every £8 you pay into your childcare account, up to £2,000 per year per child. It's like getting a free dessert with every meal!15 and 30 Hours Funded Childcare: Available for children aged 9 months to 4 years, providing up to 30 hours of free childcare per week during Term Time. Think of it as happy hours for your wallet! Just fill out the application forms from Cygnets Childcare, Redhill, and you'll be all set to go!Available for children aged 9 months to 4 years, providing up to 30 hours of free childcare per week. Think of it as a happy hour for your wallet. Just complete the Application Forms Cygnets Childcare, Redhill will give you and you will be set to go.Universal Credit: Covers up to 85% of childcare costs for eligible parents. It's like having a personal financial fairy godmother.Childcare Vouchers: Although closed to new applicants, existing users can still benefit from tax and National Insurance savings. It's the VIP section for those already in the club.Workplace Nursery Scheme:The Workplace Nursery Scheme is like having a VIP pass to nursery savings. It allows parents to pay for nursery fees directly from their pre-tax salary, resulting in significant tax and National Insurance savings. Key benefits include:Substantial Savings: Parents can save between 28% and 47% on nursery fees. It's like getting a backstage pass to the best concert in town.Flexibility: Can be used at any approved nursery including Cygnets Childcare Redhill. It's like having a golden ticket that works everywhere.Employer Support: Helps employers retain staff and attract new talent. It's a win-win for everyone involved.Easy Registration: Speak to you HR Department or just give us your company HR contact details, and Cygnets Childcare will handle the rest. It's like having a personal concierge service—subject to employer agreement, of course!Which is More Beneficial?Childcare Choices: Offers a variety of schemes that can be combined to maximize savings. It is flexible and can be used for different types of childcare, including nurseries, childminders, and after-school clubs. It's like having a Swiss Army knife of childcare support.Workplace Nursery Scheme: Provides higher savings on nursery fees, especially for higher-rate taxpayers. It is particularly beneficial if your employer offers this scheme and you have high nursery costs. It's like having a platinum credit card with no annual fee.Ultimately, the best option depends on your specific needs and circumstances. If you have high nursery costs and your employer offers the Workplace Nursery Scheme, it may provide greater savings. However, if you need flexibility and access to various types of childcare, Childcare Choices might be more suitable.For more detailed information, you can visit the Childcare Choices website and the Workplace Nursery Scheme page.Ready to Enrol?Enrol your child at Cygnets Childcare and secure the ultimate financial benefit package. It's like hitting the jackpot of childcare savings while providing a nurturing home-based environment with qualified, well-trained educators. Your child will thrive with Cygnets' unique educational approaches—all while you excel in your career or in higher education.Contact us:Email: Cygnetschildcare@hotmail.co.ukMobile/WhatsApp: 07737782669Web: www.cygnets-childcare.co.uk
Reading Time: Strategies to Manage and Channel Children's Energy
on 2024-10-03 14:03:29
by
Rose Dias
Posted in
Teacher Resources
When children talk during reading time, it can be a sign of engagement or distraction. Here are some strategies to manage and channel their energy constructively: 1. Set Clear Expectations Example: Before starting the reading session, explain the rules. For instance, “During story time, we listen quietly and save our questions for the end.” Activity: Story Time Rules Chart: Create a visual chart with rules for story time. Include pictures and simple words to help children remember the expectations. 2. Interactive Reading Example: Engage children by asking open-ended questions about the story. For example, “What do you think will happen next?” or “How do you think the character feels?” Activity: Dialogic Reading: Use dialogic reading techniques where you ask questions, expand on children’s answers, and encourage them to think about the story1. 3. Use Visual and Physical Cues Example: Use a “talking stick” or a special object that children can hold when it’s their turn to speak. Activity: Talking Stick: Introduce a talking stick during story time. Only the child holding the stick can talk, which helps manage interruptions and teaches turn-taking. 4. Incorporate Movement Example: Include actions or movements related to the story. For instance, if the story mentions a character running, have the children mimic running in place. Activity: Action Story Time: Choose stories that involve actions and encourage children to act out parts of the story. This keeps them engaged and helps them focus2. 5. Provide Opportunities for Discussion Example: Allow time for children to discuss the story after reading. This gives them a chance to share their thoughts and ask questions. Activity: Post-Reading Discussion: After reading, have a group discussion where children can talk about their favorite parts of the story and ask questions3. 6. Use Positive Reinforcement Example: Praise children for listening quietly and participating appropriately. For example, “I love how everyone is listening so well!” Activity: Listening Stars: Give out “listening stars” or stickers to children who follow the story time rules. This encourages positive behavior through rewards. 7. Model Good Listening Example: Demonstrate good listening behavior by making eye contact, nodding, and responding appropriately when children speak. Activity: Listening Role-Play: Role-play different scenarios where children practice being good listeners. This helps them understand and emulate good listening habits4. By implementing these strategies, you can create a more focused and engaging reading time for children. Would you like more specific activities or examples for any of these tips? 2: LEARN - Children’s Literacy Initiative 1: Famly - Dialogic Reading 3: Resources for Early Learning 4: Harvard Graduate School of Education - Raising Strong Readers Would you like any additional details or modifications to this policy?
Trustworthy Online Resources for Early Years Children
on 2024-09-25 08:28:58
by
Rose Dias
Trustworthy Online Educational Resources for Early Years Children.Rose Dias25 September 2024 Here are some trustworthy websites that offer great resources for early years children: BBC Bitesize: Offers a variety of educational content for early years and pre-school children. It includes fun activities, videos, and games to support learning at home1. National Literacy Trust: Provides resources and tools for early language development and parental engagement. Their “Words for Life” section is particularly useful for activities and support to improve language, literacy, and communication skills2. CBeebies: A BBC channel specifically for young children, offering educational games, videos, and activities that are both fun and educational1. Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood: Focuses on the importance of early childhood development and provides resources and research to support positive physical, emotional, and cognitive development3. Early Education: Offers a range of free ideas and resources to support play and learning at home, suitable for early years and primary-aged children4. These websites are designed to be engaging and educational, making learning fun for young children while providing valuable support for parents and practitioners. Below are some additional trustworthy websites for early years children:Sesame Street:Offers a wealth of educational games, videos, and activities featuring beloved characters. It’s designed to help children learn about numbers, letters, and social skills in a fun and engaging way.PBS Kids:Provides a variety of educational games and videos that cover a wide range of topics, from math and science to reading and social skills.Starfall:Focuses on early literacy and math skills through interactive games and activities. It’s particularly useful for helping children learn to read.Scholastic Early Learners:Offers a range of resources, including printable activities, interactive games, and educational videos, to support early learning at home.Funbrain Jr.:Aimed at preschoolers, this site offers educational games and activities that help develop early literacy, math, and problem-solving skills.Oxford Owl:Provides free eBooks, educational games, and activities to support reading and math skills for young children.ABCmouse:A comprehensive early learning app that covers reading, math, science, and art through interactive lessons and activities.These websites are designed to be both educational and entertaining, making learning a fun experience for young children. If you need more recommendations or have any specific needs, feel free to ask! You can also read 'Online Safety in Early Years Settings: A fun guide for Parents and Practitioners'' on our blog - cygnets-childcare.co.ukReference:1. bbc.co.uk 2. literacytrust.org.uk 3. royalfoundation.com4. early-education.org.uk5. independent.co.uk6. Sesame Street - sesamestreet.org 7. PBS Kids - pbskids.org8. Starfall - starfall.com 9. Scholastic Early Learners - scholastic.com/parents10. Funbrain Jr. - funbrainjr.com11. Oxford Owl - oxfordowl.co.ukABCmouse - abcmouse.com
Online Safety in Early Years Education: A fun guide for Parents and Practitioners
on 2024-09-25 07:50:53
by
Rose Dias
Posted in
Safeguarding
Blog
Family Support
Online Safety in Early Years Education: A Fun Guide for Parents and Practitioners.Rose Dias25 September 2024 A Fun Guide to Keeping Kids Safe in Education Why Safety Matters: For Kids: Just like superheroes need protection from villains, kids need to be kept safe from harm. Safeguarding ensures they can learn and play in a secure environment. For Adults: You’re the guardians of these little heroes, ensuring they’re safe and sound while they explore and learn. Key Points for Practitioners: Be a Role Model: Show kids how to stay safe by setting a good example. Think of yourself as their safety superhero! Educate: Teach children about safety in a fun and understandable way. Use stories, games, and activities to get the message across. Supervise: Keep an eye on the kids to make sure they’re safe. Just like a lifeguard watches over swimmers, you’re there to keep them out of danger. Follow Policies: Stick to the rules and guidelines of your setting to ensure everyone stays protected. Tips for Parents: Monitor Activities: Keep an eye on what your child is doing, both online and offline. Think of it as being their safety sidekick. Set Boundaries: Establish clear rules for what’s safe and what’s not. It’s like drawing a map of safe zones for your child. Communicate: Talk to your child about their day and encourage them to share any worries. Open communication is your secret weapon. Common Risks: Inappropriate Content: Kids might come across things that aren’t suitable for their age. Be their filter and guide them to safe content. Stranger Danger: Teach kids to be cautious about who they interact with, both online and in person. Not everyone is a friendly face. Privacy: Make sure kids know not to share personal information with strangers. Their identity is their secret identity! Practical Steps for Practitioners and Parents: For Practitioners:Training: Keep your online safety skills sharp with regular training sessions and workshops arranged and recommended by Cygnets.Engagement: Get parents involved in online safety chats and share handy resources with them. Encourage parents to read the Cygnets Childcare Family Support blog written for Cygnets Childcare Community and beyond.Reporting: Know the drill for reporting any online safety hiccups or incidents. For Parents: Parental Controls: Use parental controls on devices to block inappropriate content. It’s like putting up a safety shield. Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest safety tips and trends. Knowledge is power! Support: Encourage your child to talk to you if something feels off. Be their trusted confidant. Creating a Safe Environment: Secure Networks: Ensure your internet connection is safe and has the right filters. Think of it as building a digital fortress. Device Management: Regularly check and update security settings on all devices. Keep those gadgets safe and sound. Digital Footprint: Teach kids about leaving a positive digital footprint. Their online actions are like their superhero legacy! Encouraging Positive Behaviour: Respect: Promote kindness and respect in all interactions. Every hero should be kind! Critical Thinking: Encourage kids to think twice about the information they find. Not everything is as it seems. Balance: Help kids balance screen time with other activities. Even superheroes need a break! Resources and Support:Websites: We will point Cygnets Childcare Redhill parents and practitioners to trustworthy websites for more online safety tips in the upcoming updates to this article and in a separate article called ''Trustworthy Online Resources for Early Years Children'Helplines: We will provide contact details for helplines and support services for any online safety worries in the upcoming updates to this article. you can also find some contact details in Cygnets Childcare Redhill Safeguarding Policy.Workshops: We are happy to organize fun workshops and info sessions for Cygnets Childcare parents and practitioners to chat about online safety. Please let us know if you wish us to arrange a workshop. By working together, parents and practitioners can create a safe and fun environment for children to learn and grow. Remember, safeguarding is a team effort and an ongoing mission. If you have any more questions or need extra resources, don’t hesitate to reach out!
Conquering Nightmares: The Fun Path to a Healthy Brain and Sweet Dreams
on 2024-09-19 21:04:03
by
Rose Dias
Posted in
Family Support
When a toddler dreams of becoming a superhero and then insists on wearing their cape to breakfast, you know their dreams are already coming true! 1. Establish a Relaxing Bedtime Routine: Calming Activities: Think of bedtime as a mini spa retreat. Read a gentle story, listen to soothing tunes, or practice some deep breathing. No need for cucumber slices on the eyes, though! Avoid Stimulants: Keep caffeine and sugar at bay before bed. We want your child dreaming of unicorns, not bouncing off the walls like a kangaroo on a pogo stick. 2. Create a Safe and Comfortable Sleep Environment: Nightlight: A soft nightlight can be your child’s trusty sidekick, keeping the boogeyman at bay without turning the room into a disco. Comfort Items: Let your child snuggle up with their favorite toy or blanket. It’s like having a sleepover with their best buddy every night. 3. Address Daytime Stressors: Talk About Fears: Encourage your child to spill the beans about their fears. It’s like being their personal superhero, ready to tackle any monster under the bed. Positive Reinforcement: Celebrate the little victories. Did they eat all their veggies? High five! These moments build confidence and make them feel like the king or queen of their castle. 4. Limit Exposure to Scary Content: Monitor Media: Keep an eye on what your child watches. No horror movies before bed unless you want them dreaming of zombie teddy bears. 5. Teach Coping Mechanisms: Relaxation Techniques: Teach your child to breathe like a zen master. Deep breaths in, deep breaths out. It’s like blowing up an imaginary balloon. Empowerment: Encourage your child to rewrite their nightmares with a happy ending. Maybe the scary dragon just wanted to play hopscotch. 6. Consistent Sleep Schedule: Regular Bedtime: Stick to a regular bedtime and wake-up time. Think of it as setting your child’s internal alarm clock to “awesome.” 7. Professional Support: Consult a Pediatrician: If nightmares persist, it’s time to call in the experts. Pediatricians and child psychologists are like the dream team for tackling sleep troubles. We too can arrange early interventions and make a referral to a at Cygnets. When Your Child Wakes Up from a Nightmare Immediate Comfort: Rush to your child’s side like a superhero. Hold them and use your best soothing voice to reassure them. Stay Calm: Keep your cool. Your calm presence is like a magical shield against fear. Offer Water: Sometimes a sip of water can help calm your child and make them feel more comfortable. It’s like a magic potion for settling back to sleep. Discuss the Dream: If your child is old enough, talk about the dream. Help them understand that it was just a dream and not real. Maybe the monster was just looking for a midnight snack. Reassure and Settle: Reassure your child that they are safe and help them settle back to sleep. Stay with them until they feel calm and ready to drift off to dreamland again. Healthy Brain and Dreams A healthy brain is like a well-oiled machine, and good sleep is the fuel that keeps it running smoothly. When your child gets enough restful sleep, their brain can process all the day’s adventures, store memories, and even come up with some pretty wild dreams. So, by helping your child tackle nightmares and get a good night’s sleep, you’re not just ensuring sweet dreams—you’re also supporting their brain development and overall well-being.