Twinkl Talks: EYFS

In this episode, Shána is joined by Lucy and Matt from Stoke Primary School to explore the journey of opening a dedicated provision for two-year-olds within the school setting. They discuss the motivation behind creating the provision and why it was seen as an important step for both children and families in the community.In this friendly and insightful conversation, they take you behind the scenes of the whole process, from the initial idea through to opening the doors and welcoming children in. They reflect on the key steps, the challenges they faced, and the successes they’ve celebrated along the way.Whether you’re considering expanding early years provision or simply curious about how it all works in practice, this episode offers honest insights, practical reflections, and plenty of inspiration.Check out Stoke Primary School below 👇🏫 https://www.stoke.coventry.sch.uk/🖥️ https://www.facebook.com/stokeprimary/Check out our Early Years resources below 👇📄 https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1ezje1

Twinkl Private Early Years answers your early years practitioners problems! This episode covers: Should we be teaching preschool children phonics? Or leave it up to the school? What kind of things could we spend our EYPP on?What should a good staff meeting include? Check out our resources below 👇🖥️ https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/15amrx🗣️ https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/16282s📄 https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/8m1mc Want to see more from the Twinkl Private Early Years team? You can find us on Facebook and Instagram. Don't forget to check out our lovely Twinkl EYFS Resources for your day nursery, preschool and all other EYFS settings too!

🎙️🎧 Episode 107 IS NOW LIVE!!! 🎧🎙️Join Shána as she chats with Laura and Celia from Everyday Play about the power of outdoor learning in early years settings. In this episode, we explore the key differences between an outdoor classroom and a simple outdoor area, and why that distinction matters for children’s development. Laura and Celia share what makes outdoor environments so unique, supporting curiosity, risk-taking, physical development, and deeper engagement with learning. We also tackle one of the biggest challenges practitioners face: the weather. From practical solutions for storage and shelter to making the most of water play all year round, this conversation is packed with realistic, achievable ideas. You’ll hear their top tips, favourite outdoor setups, and real-life case studies that bring outdoor provision to life. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to enhance your current space, there’s something here for everyone. A must-listen for anyone passionate about meaningful outdoor learning. Check out Everyday Play’s socials and website below to follow Laura and Celia for more inspiration 👇 Facebook: Everyday Play | Ashford Instagram: Everyday Play / L&L (@everyday_play__) • Instagram profile LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/everyday-play-spaces/posts/?feedView=allWebsite: Everyday Play - The Playground Specialists  Check out our resources below to help support outdoor play in your setting 👇https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1hrjp9https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/10emx1https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1998sc

Twinkl Private Early Years answers your early years practitioners problems! This episode covers: It's parents' evening soon, and I'm terrified, as I've never done one before. Any tips?Opinions on screen time within nurseries? E.g., watching something at the end of the day or nursery rhyme videos? https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resource/incy-wincy-spider-animated-nursery-rhyme-t-e-1673450626 Should staff have to come in on a weekend to take part in stay-and-plays? Want to see more from the Twinkl Private Early Years team? You can find us on Facebook and Instagram. Don't forget to check out our lovely Twinkl EYFS Resources for your day nursery, preschool and all other EYFS settings too!

Join Shána and Hana as they discuss how to support bilingualism in the early years. In this episode, they explore the science of bilingualism and language acquisition, challenge common misconceptions, and share what educators need to know to support bilingual children effectively.They also discuss what this looks like in practice within early years settings, highlight a helpful app that supports communication with multilingual families, and introduce Hana’s CPD courses for educators who want to deepen their understanding and confidence in supporting bilingual learners. Be sure to check out Hana's socials and the links below to learn more.Sprouts Arabic‎Sprouts Arabic Montessori Nursery | براعم العربية كارديف‎ (@sproutsarabic) • Instagram profilewww.sproutsarabic.co.uksproutsarabic on TikTokTaani TechTaani Tech (@taanitech) • Instagram profilehttps://www.taani.tech/Check out our Supporting EAL in Early Years resources below 👇🔗 https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/y0msu🔗 https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1m5iaz

Twinkl Private Early Years answers your early years practitioners problems! This episode covers:How do you come up with next steps for children?How can I make my return to work after maternity leave go well?What tips do you have for self-registration?Want to see more from the Twinkl Private Early Years team? You can find us on Facebook and Instagram. Don't forget to check out our lovely Twinkl EYFS Resources for your day nursery, preschool and all other EYFS settings too!

🎧🎙️ Episode 103 IS NOW LIVE!!! 🎙️🎧 In this episode, we’re joined by Shána Walker and Georgina Young as we dive into the world of schemas and why they matter so much in children’s learning — especially outdoors 🌱We talk about:✨ What schemas are and how they show up in children’s play✨ How the setting and environment influence learning✨ Why outdoor schemas are so powerful✨ Real examples of what we’ve seen in practice✨ What happens when children don’t get these experiences✨ Our top tips for supporting schemas in meaningful ways This episode is all about seeing children differently, understanding behaviour as learning, and creating environments that truly support development. 🔗 Follow Georgina’s work and find out more:👉 Connect with Georgina on Facebook👉 Follow Georgina on Instagram👉 Explore Georgina’s website here

Twinkl Private Early Years answers your early years practitioners problems! This episode covers:How long should circle time be for toddlers and preschoolers?What tips do you have for staff who seem withdrawn and reluctant to join in?What are some effective ways to structure peer observations? Explore our EYFS Resources: 👉 https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1gkf05👉 https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/x2xni👉 https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1a2vqgWant to see more from the Twinkl Private Early Years team? You can find us on Facebook and Instagram. Don't forget to check out our lovely Twinkl EYFS Resources for your day nursery, preschool and all other EYFS settings too!

🎙️🎧 Episode 101 IS NOW LIVE!!! 🎧🎙️Join Shána, Michelle and Samantha as they explore what it really means to support toddlers, both at home and in early years settings. Drawing on professional insight and real-world experience, the team discusses how toddlers’ needs differ from younger children, and how adults can respond with confidence, consistency and compassion.In this episode, we cover:Supporting toddlers - how is it different?How can routines help toddlers feel safe, settled and ready to learn?What can settings do to support toddlers and families when starting an education setting?Why is sleep such a common challenge at this age, and how can practitioners support families?How can potty training be approached in a way that respects each child’s readiness?What role do dummies play in comfort and self-regulation, and when might change be needed?How can early years professionals support parent wellbeing during the toddler years? Whether you’re an early years practitioner, a setting leader, or a parent of a toddler, this episode offers practical guidance, reassurance and plenty of “you’re not alone” moments. Explore our EYFS Resources:👉 https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/aa651👉 https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/18yh7a👉 https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1fd2pa👉 https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/10bkfg

Twinkl Private Early Years answers your early years practitioners problems! This episode covers:Should nappies be changed by the key person or is a rota best?What advice do you have for covering at a different nursery?Can I say no to moving rooms?Want to see more from the Twinkl Private Early Years team? You can find us on Facebook and Instagram. Don't forget to check out our lovely Twinkl EYFS Resources for your day nursery, preschool and all other EYFS settings too!

In this episode, Shána is joined by Laura Brogan, our NEL Phonics Lead, for a deep dive into how children build the foundations for reading through Phase 1 (Level 1) phonics.Together, they unpack:🔹 Why pre-phonics skills matter🔹 The key aspects of Level 1 and how they underpin later phonics success🔹 What it can look like when Level 1 isn’t fully secured🔹 How early gaps can affect a child’s progression through other phonics phases🔹 Laura’s top tips for strengthening early listening, attention, and sound awarenessWhether you’re an early years practitioner, a teacher, or someone supporting children at home, this conversation is packed with practical guidance to help children build a confident start in phonics.📖 Read more on this topic:🔗 https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/ctpl5

🎄 Our Christmas Special is LIVE! 🎄Join Shána, Laura, Lou, and Georgia for a festive edition packed with holiday cheer, hilarious games, and plenty of laughs. Whether you’re wrapping presents, sipping cocoa, or just getting into the Christmas spirit, this episode is the perfect companion.Tune in now and celebrate the season with us! ✨🎁

Join Shána and Lorna as they dive into the world of setting up your perfect creative craft area!In this episode, they explore what a creative area truly is, not just painting, but role-play, messy play, small world setups, music corners, malleable play and more.

Twinkl Private Early Years answers your early years practitioners problems! This episode covers:How do you keep coming up with Christmas planning ideas for early years?What do you think about making Christmas cards and gifts for the children?Does your early years setting open between Christmas and New Years?Want to see more from the Twinkl Private Early Years team? You can find us on Facebook and Instagram. Don't forget to check out our lovely Twinkl EYFS Resources for your day nursery, preschool and all other EYFS settings too!

Shána is joined by Michelle Elliot, Early Years Parents ECL at Twinkl, to explore the vital role of effective communication between educators, parents, and carers. Michelle shares practical insights on how strong partnerships can positively impact a child’s learning and development - from creating open channels of communication to supporting families with the right resources.We discuss:Why clear communication with parents and carers matters in early years settingsCommon barriers and how to overcome themStrategies for building trust and collaboration between home and schoolTwinkl EY’s approach to supporting educators and familiesWhether you’re an early years practitioner, teacher, or parent, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you strengthen those all-important home–school connections.Follow Twinkl Parents on: Facebook - Instagram - Website - TikTok

Twinkl Private Early Years answers your early years practitioners problems! This episode covers:What should we do with a staff member who is refusing to change nappies?I haven’t interviewed for years, what should I expect?Should we ban Halloween in early years settings?Want to see more from the Twinkl Private Early Years team? You can find us on Facebook and Instagram. Don't forget to check out our lovely Twinkl EYFS Resources for your day nursery, preschool and all other EYFS settings too!

Join Shána, Julia and Lou as they dive into nutrition in the Early Years. They’ll be chatting through recent changes, what this means for your setting, and practical ways to support parents, carers and children with healthy choices.Whether you’re looking for ideas to share with families or guidance on mealtimes in your provision, this episode is full of useful insights and tips.

In the last couple of weeks, Ofsted have released the newest inspection framework, early years toolkits and held online briefings to share more details. Changes are coming in November 2025 so join the Twinkl Private Early Years team as they discuss some of what’s coming:Changes to inspection dayPrioritising inclusionFocussing on wellbeingInspection timelinesWant to see more from the Twinkl Private Early Years team? You can find us on Facebook and Instagram. Don't forget to check out our lovely Twinkl EYFS Resources for your day nursery, preschool and all other EYFS settings too!

💬 How do we protect our wellbeing in the busy world of Early Years?Shána and Becky explore strategies for setting boundaries, regaining balance and feeling more in control, both inside and outside the classroom.✨ Alongside the episode, we’re sharing a Wellbeing Calendar for Practitioners plus a simple Things to Look Forward To jar craft, both designed to give you little boosts throughout the term.Want to take the conversation further? Don’t miss our upcoming TeachMeet.

Twinkl Private Early Years answers your early years practitioners problems all around the new EYFS 2025 and safeguarding reforms! This episode covers:How long should outdoor play be?What are your opinions of completing paper in the work whilst the children are present?How useful do you find supply staff?Want to see more from the Twinkl Private Early Years team? You can find us on Facebook and Instagram. Don't forget to check out our lovely Twinkl EYFS Resources for your day nursery, preschool and all other EYFS settings too!

In this episode, we’re joined by Twinkl’s National Education Lead, Michelle Windridge, to break down what’s changing in early years education from September 2025.We explore the latest DfE guidance and what it means for Reception teachers, EYFS leaders, and early years settings—including updates to the Writing Framework, the Reception Baseline Assessment, EYFS safeguarding reforms, and the new “Best Start in Life” plan.You’ll also hear practical insights on school readiness support, curriculum planning, and how to feel confident heading into the new academic year.Perfect for early years professionals looking to stay ahead of upcoming changes.Read her blog here.

Twinkl Private Early Years answers your early years practitioners problems all around the new EYFS 2025 and safeguarding reforms! This episode covers:What’s changed with the new EYFS?Where can you get the latest information?Can unqualified staff be included in early years ratios?Do all early years staff need paediatric first aid training?Want to see more from the Twinkl Private Early Years team? You can find us on Facebook and Instagram. Don't forget to check out our lovely Twinkl EYFS Resources for your day nursery, preschool and all other EYFS settings too!

Join the Twinkl EY in Schools team as they dive into all things continuous provision, from what it really means, to exploring enhanced and integrated provision, plus top tips for making it work in your setting.You’ll also find plenty of inspiration from real practitioners and examples of provision in action. Don't forget to check out our Continuous Provision Hub and latest blog posts for even more ideas and support!🔗 https://www.twinkl.co.uk/early-years-continuous-provision-hub

Twinkl Private Early Years answers your early years practitioners problems! This episode covers:I’ve worked in childcare for a while and find it hard to come up with new ideas. Any suggestions to help me with this?Should early years staff be bag searched on arrival into setting?Do you allow children to bring in their own toys into setting?Want to see more from the Twinkl Private Early Years team? You can find us on Facebook and Instagram. Don't forget to check out our lovely Twinkl EYFS Resources for your day nursery, preschool and all other EYFS settings too!

Join Shána, Julia and Liz as they explore what behaviour tells us in early years settings. From schemas to dysregulation, they share insights and strategies to better understand and support behaviour in schools and nurseries.

Twinkl Private Early Years answers your early years practitioners problems! This episode covers:Should unqualified staff have key children?What advice do we have for a new toddler room leader?Is 25 too old to start an apprenticeship?Want to see more from the Twinkl Private Early Years team? You can find us on Facebook and Instagram. Don't forget to check out our lovely Twinkl EYFS Resources for your day nursery, preschool and all other EYFS settings too!

Join Shána, Emma, and Pete as they dive into the topic of Do Screens Ruin Reading?, exploring the impact of screen time on early literacy. They reflect on current research, share classroom experiences, and discuss how educators and families can strike a balance between digital tools and traditional reading approachesCheck out our website and Twinkl Originals App below 👇https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1g0p4jhttps://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/77air

Twinkl Private Early Years answers your early years practitioners problems! This episode covers:How can you ensure you setting celebrates diversity?What do you need to do and know to be a successful manager in early years?What are your opinions on dummies in early years?Want to see more from the Twinkl Private Early Years team? You can find us on Facebook and Instagram. Don't forget to check out our lovely Twinkl EYFS Resources for your day nursery, preschool and all other EYFS settings too!

Join Shána, Tracie, and Amie as they explore the EYFS Profile—what it is, why it matters, and how it supports children’s development. A quick, insightful chat for early years practitioners and anyone interested in early education.Here’s a link to our dedicated hub for updates and resources, and don’t forget to sign up for moderation if you haven’t already. You can also check out the Early Learning Goals (ELG) document and the latest guidance on the gov.uk website for full details.

Twinkl Private Early Years answers your early years practitioners problems! This episode covers:What key information should be included in a school transition form?What should a policy around smart watches include?What’s the difference between a deputy and nursery manager?Want to see more from the Twinkl Private Early Years team? You can find us on Facebook and Instagram. Don't forget to check out our lovely Twinkl EYFS Resources for your day nursery, preschool and all other EYFS settings too!

Join Shána, Lou and Julia as they discuss the many stages of the play cycle.https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1mw07uhttps://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/18ecnthttps://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/are2ehttps://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/uyvinhttps://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/8ndbzhttps://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/68yrj

Twinkl Private Early Years answers your early years practitioners problems! This episode covers:How can I further support staff morale in my room?How do you manage staff breaks and children lunches in early years?Which is better for children and outdoor play - free flow or set times?Want to see more from the Twinkl Private Early Years team? You can find us on Facebook and Instagram. Don't forget to check out our lovely Twinkl EYFS Resources for your day nursery, preschool and all other EYFS settings too!

Join Shána as she speaks to Educational Content Leads Becki Porter and Emma Fitzgerald, about how phonics isn't the only tool for learning to read and write.Upcoming TeachMeetsHow to support all learners with readingA whole school approachPhonics isn't working Home PagesTwinkl Originals Twinkl Phonics

Join Katie from Twinkl Private Early Years as she discusses early years apprentices with Sophie Hayter! Sophie is one of, if not THE, leading expert on early years qualifications and apprenticeships in England.Make sure to join Sophie’s group on Facebook - Early Years & Teaching Assistants Training & Qualifications (UK) to get the latest updates!Want to see more from the Twinkl Private Early Years team? You can find us on Facebook and Instagram. Don't forget to check out our lovely Twinkl EYFS Resources for your day nursery, preschool and all other EYFS settings too!

Join Shána as she speaks with Jayde, an SEND EYFS educator and Makaton Tutor, about how we use communication to support social interactions.Sign & Bloom Facebook PageSign & Bloom WebsiteJayde Conway LinkedIn Profile

Twinkl Private Early Years answers your early years practitioners problems! This episode covers:How do I stand out in my CV when applying for jobs in private early years settings?Have tuff trays become more for show in the early years rather than about the children’s learning?Tips for helping reduce stress and preventing ‘burnout’ when working in the early yearsShould people in senior roles such as a room leader have key children or not?Want to see more from the Twinkl Private Early Years team? You can find us on Facebook and Instagram. Don't forget to check out our lovely Twinkl EYFS Resources for your day nursery, preschool and all other EYFS settings too!

BONUS EPISODE!To round off our mini series on communication and language development, Shána speaks with the Twinkl EAL and SEND managers about the barriers faced and support needed for children with additional learning needs.SEND in the Experts PodcastTalking Their Language PodcastTwinkl SEND supportTwinkl EAL SupportTwinkl Symbols

The Twinkl Early Years in Schools, Private Early Years and Early Years CPD teams have come together to give you another Christmas Special! Complete with fun and games, we definitely recommend playing along with us!

In this third and final episode of our miniseries on communication development in the early years, Julia and Louise outline the development that happens for toddlers aged one year old and upwards.Early Years C&L ResourcesDeveloping C&L for Ages 1-3Developing C&L for Ages 3-5

In this second episode of our three-part miniseries on communication development in the early years, Julia and Louise outline the development that happens for babies in the womb up until they are twelve months old.Early Years C&L ResourcesC&L Development for Babies PPTC&L Milestones for Ages 0-12 Months

Julia and Louise are back in this mini series about Communication & Language in the Early Years. In this part 1, we discuss the importance of communication in all its forms, how it might look when there is a need for support and how our environments impact development.Early Years C&L Resources

Twinkl Private Early Years answers your early years practitioners problems! This episode covers:What methods do you use to improve daily routines?What does reading look like for different agesWhat characteristics do you look for in a room leader?How do you cope with a room change in private nurseries?Want to see more from the Twinkl Private Early Years team? You can find us on Facebook and Instagram. Don't forget to check out our lovely Twinkl EYFS Resources for your day nursery, preschool and all other EYFS settings too!

This week the Twinkl Early Years Schools and Private Early Years teams have joined to celebrate you! Listen as they share stories of the struggles, laughs and the importance of early years practitioners. EY in Schools Giveaway Entry Page - Private EY Giveaway Entry PageBONUS Entry Page - FREE EYP Day Staff Resource Pack

Join the Twinkl Private Early Years team as they discuss the experiences and reality of staff meetings in day nurseries and preschools. Is the experience of everyone sitting in a circle after a long day universal in early years?Want to see more from the Twinkl Private Early Years team? You can find us on Facebook and Instagram. Don't forget to check out our lovely Twinkl EYFS Resources for your day nursery, preschool and all other EYFS settings too!

Join Shána as she speaks with Sophie Bradley to discuss board game benefits and how these games can support not just children's reading skills, but in every area of learning.Follow Sophie here: Instagram - Facebook

Twinkl Private Early Years answers your practitioner problems! This episode covers:What is the difference between level 2 and level 3 practitioners in terms of job and pay?What time do you start and finish each day? Are you paid for your setting up time?What questions should you ask in interviews to detect red flags?Want to see more from the Twinkl Private Early Years team? You can find us on Facebook and Instagram. Don't forget to check out our lovely Twinkl EYFS Resources for your day nursery, preschool and all other EYFS settings too!

Join Shána as she speaks with Stuart Cloke, a nursery manager, on how we can support our male early years practitioners in the workplace.Follow Stuart here:Instagram - Puff Amazon - LinkedIn - Claudio Siserio

Join the Twinkl Private Early Years team as they discuss some commonly asked questions from Ofsted and how to answer them. The questions answered include:How do you support children with SEND?How do you work with parents and caregivers?How do you feel that activity went?What informs your practice?You can find more Ofsted questions and answers here to support early years practitioners and teachers in your settings!

SUBJECT LEADERSHIP MINI SERIESTwinkl EY in schools and Twinkl Subject Leads are teaming up!Shána & Katie end the mini series discussing how the P.E, Computing, Dance and DT subjects in the National Curriculum and Characteristics of Effective Learning (CoEL) in the Early Years curriculum are a particular challenge to align for subject leads, and what they need to know about their relationship with each curriculum.What Are the Characteristics of Effective Learning?What Computing Subject Leaders Need To Know About the EYFSThe EYFS Framework - What Subject Leaders Need To KnowWhat Subject Leaders Can Expect To Be Asked During An OFSTED InspectionSubject Leads Homepage

SUBJECT LEADERSHIP MINI SERIESTwinkl EY in schools and Twinkl Subject Leads are teaming up!Shána & Katie continue the mini series discussing how Art & Design, Drama, Dance and DT subjects look in the Early Years curriculum and what leaders of these subjects can expect to see in the early years classroom. (Hint: it's NOTHING like other key stages!)Subject Leaders Exploring EYFS: ArtThe EYFS Framework - What Subject Leaders Need To KnowWhat Subject Leaders Can Expect To Be Asked During An OFSTED InspectionSubject Leads Homepage