Author: Shannon Pite

Scarlet fever/Strep A

Family doctor examining throat of a small boy while visiting him at home

Scarlet fever is caused by bacteria called Group A streptococci (Strep A). The bacteria usually cause a mild infection that can be easily treated with antibiotics.

How to start a baby and toddler or stay and play group

Children sat around a table playing with two adults

Both baby and toddler groups and stay and play groups are an essential part of the community. They offer the opportunity for young children to have fun and mix with other children in a safe environment where a familiar adult can share and extend their early learning experiences.

Baby and toddler groups

Group of mothers with children playing on the floor with toys

Baby and toddler groups are an essential part of the community. They offer the opportunity for young children to have fun and mix with other children in a safe environment and they offer a valuable lifeline for parents and carers to get out of the house and meet other adults.

Prevention of back pain

Preschool teacher picking up toys at kindergarten

Back pain and associated conditions are a common problem in the early years. 82% of UK early and primary educators experience work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), which include back, hip, shoulder and knee pain, at least once a week.

Mental health and wellbeing

Girl sat next to boy hugging around his shoulders looking out into the sea

Early years educators play a vital role in supporting children’s positive mental health and wellbeing, through the creation of consistent daily routines, positive warm relationships and nurturing care in a welcoming, safe and enabling environment.

Infection control

Young boy washing his hands under a tap at the sink

Ensuring the health and safety of children, staff, and families is a top priority for all early years settings. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is through the implementation of robust infection control measures. These practices not only reduce the risk of spreading illnesses but also create a secure and hygienic environment.

Health and wellbeing

Happy child with down syndrome enjoying swing on playground

Information and guidance on how to ensure your setting or organisation supports the physical and mental health of both staff and families.

Charitable settings

Three little boys reading a book on a sofa

Charitable early years settings are usually managed by a committee of volunteers nominated by the parents, who together form the trustees of the charity, and take the role of the Ofsted ‘registered person’.

Employing and managing early years staff

Girl lifting and hugging her younger sister

Supporting the skills and wellbeing of the staff in an early years provision is an important part of delivering high standards of education and care for children.

Starting an early years business

Little boy carefully building a stack of colourful building blocks

Providing high-quality care and education for young children is enormously rewarding. It provides a much-needed service for local communities and, most importantly, makes a huge difference to the development and well-being of children.

Financial management and funding

Little girl sat on the floor playing with a colourful abacus

For an early years provision to function well, it is vital its finances are appropriately planned and managed. A structured financial system helps day-to-day activities to run more smoothly, and accurate accounting records can support the planning process. In short, sound financial management helps keep your provision more sustainable.