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Welcome to the Yewlands Blog. This space shares our thinking, values and everyday practice at Yewlands Day Nursery. Here you’ll find insight into how children learn through curiosity-led play, how we support families, and how our curriculum is thoughtfully planned to help every child thrive.
Supporting families
Guidance, reassurance and practical support for families as they navigate early childhood and nursery life.


Essential Guide to Nursery Funding for Parents: How, When, and Where to Apply
Finding the right nursery for your child is a big step, and understanding nursery funding can make this journey easier and more affordable. Many parents don’t realize there are government-funded options that help cover the cost of early years childcare. This guide explains how nursery funding works, when and where to apply, and what it covers — so you can make informed decisions for your family. What Nursery Funding Covers Nursery funding supports the basics of early years ed
Michelle Twinn
3 min read


Helping Your Child Sleep Better: Tips for Parents Facing Bedtime Struggles
Getting your child to sleep well can feel like a daily challenge. Many parents face bedtime struggles that leave everyone feeling tired and frustrated. Sleep is essential for children’s growth, mood, and learning, so finding ways to improve their sleep habits is crucial. This post offers practical advice to help parents create a calm, consistent bedtime routine and understand the role of daytime rest in supporting better nighttime sleep. Why Sleep Matters for Children Sleep a
Michelle Twinn
3 min read


How the Curiosity Approach Enhances School Readiness in Young Learners
Starting school is a big step for young children and their families. The transition can feel overwhelming, but preparing children to be ready for school helps them feel confident and eager to learn. One effective way to support this readiness is through the Curiosity Approach. This method encourages children to explore, ask questions, and engage deeply with their environment, building skills that matter for school success. What Is the Curiosity Approach? The Curiosity Approac
Michelle Twinn
3 min read


Essential Guide to Toilet Training for Parents When is Your Child Ready to Transition from Nappies
Toilet training is a major milestone for both children and parents. It marks a step towards independence and can bring a sense of achievement for your little one. Yet, knowing when your child is ready to move on from nappies can be confusing. Every child develops at their own pace, and pushing too early or waiting too long can cause frustration. This guide offers clear signs to watch for, practical tips, and advice to make the transition smoother for your family. Signs Your C
Michelle Twinn
2 min read


Essential Tips for Parents to Keep Young Children Safe Online
Young children today grow up surrounded by digital devices. Tablets, smartphones, and computers offer fun and learning opportunities, but they also bring risks. For parents of children up to age five, understanding how to keep little ones safe online is crucial. This guide offers practical advice to help parents protect their children while encouraging healthy digital habits. Understand the Risks for Young Children Online Children under five are naturally curious and may not
Michelle Twinn
3 min read


Supporting Your Child's Learning with Phase 1 Phonics Activities at Home
Helping your child develop early reading skills can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to phonics. Phase 1 phonics lays the foundation for reading by focusing on listening skills and sound awareness. Supporting your child at home with simple, fun activities can make a big difference in their confidence and progress. This post offers practical ideas to engage your child in phase 1 phonics learning without pressure or stress. Phase 1 phonics letter and sound cards on t
Michelle Twinn
3 min read


Weaning...
Weaning at Home and Nursery: A Smooth Transition for Your Little One Weaning is an exciting milestone in your child’s development, marking the journey from milk feeds to solid foods. Whether you're just starting out or moving towards more independent eating, the transition between home and nursery can feel like a big step. But don’t worry—by working together, we can make weaning a positive and stress-free experience for both you and your child! At Yewlands Day Nursery , we su
Michelle Twinn
3 min read


Settling your child into nursery...
Starting nursery is a big milestone—for both children and parents! It’s exciting, nerve-wracking, and filled with new experiences. If you’re feeling a little anxious about how your child will adjust, you’re not alone. But what if we approached this transition through the lens of curiosity? The Curiosity Approach to early childhood education encourages a child-led, exploratory learning environment that nurtures independence, creativity, and confidence. By using this philosoph
Michelle Twinn
2 min read
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