Episodes
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Hey there, I’m Emily Macfarlane, and welcome to The Diary of an Early Years Educator!
This podcast is your go-to space for honest, down-to-earth conversations about the realities of working with young children. Every week, I’ll be sharing personal stories from my time in early years, along with practical tips, funny moments, and reflections on everything that comes with the job. From navigating tricky situations to celebrating the little wins, it's all about keeping it real and having a laugh along the way.
This isn’t your typical, formal podcast. Think of it more like catching up with a friend who gets the highs and lows of early years work, and isn't afraid to chat about both! Whether you’re already working with young children, just getting started, or simply curious about what goes on in this fantastic (and sometimes chaotic) industry, you’re in the right place.
So grab a cuppa, settle in, and join me for some fun, casual, and relatable chats about all things early years. I can't wait to share this journey with you!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this weeks episode of Little Minds, Big Ideas, Ben and Emily take a deep dive into the results of Ofsted's Big Listen consultation and the major reforms shaking up the inspection landscape. They explore the monumental shift from single-word judgments to more comprehensive report cards, aimed at providing a fuller picture of school performance while reducing the pressure on educators.
The conversation delves into how Ofsted is focusing on transparency, with reforms designed to create a more collaborative relationship between inspectors and schools. Ben and Emily also discuss the significant changes aimed at improving support for vulnerable learners, including students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), and how safeguarding practices are becoming a central priority.
This episode takes a look at the future of Ofsted, particularly the planned improvements in inspector training and contextual understanding, making inspections more relevant to the unique circumstances of each school. Ben and Emily also unpack how these reforms could positively impact staff well-being, addressing concerns raised in the consultation regarding the mental health toll of inspections.
Finally, the pair discusses how Ofsted plans to move forward with these changes, exploring what this means for the education system and what educators can expect from future inspections. Will these reforms really create a fairer, more supportive system, or will they fall short of the change schools and nursery settings are hoping for?
Tune in as Ben and Emily break down all the details and predict how Ofsted will evolve in the coming years. Don't miss this in-depth conversation on the future of education inspections, the reforms to rebuild trust, and how Ofsted aims to make a positive impact in schools across the UK.
Don't forget if you enjoyed this episode make sure to head over to The Early Years Network where you can find a world of early years training and development at your finger tips at a click of a button. All for just £4.99 a month.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Missing episodes?
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This week on Little Minds, Big Ideas Ben & Emily explore the science behind how routines and habits shape early childhood development. Discover how these daily practices influence brain growth, learning, and emotional well-being, providing young minds with the structure and stability they need to thrive.
Join us as we delve into the critical role that habits play in building foundational skills, fostering independence in children and developing emotional regulation, setting the stage for lifelong success.
Don't forget if you enjoyed this podcast make sure to head over to The Early Years Network where you can find a world of early years training and development at your finger tips at a click of a button. All for just £4.99 a month.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this week's exciting episode of Little Minds, Big Ideas, Ben and Emily dive into the essential qualities that define the 'perfect' early years educator. From the art of communication to the necessity of inner curiosity, they explore the diverse and crucial skills that make educators truly exceptional in the wonderful world of early childhood education.
What does it take to connect with young minds? How do organisation and creativity play a role in shaping a child's early experiences? Ben and Emily leave no stone unturned as they discuss the traits that contribute to creating a nurturing and stimulating learning environment.
Whether you're an educator, parent, or simply curious about the world of early years education, this podcast is a must-listen. Join us as we celebrate the passion, dedication, and skills that make early years educators so special. Don't miss out on this insightful conversation—tune in and discover what it takes to make a lasting impact on the next generation!
Wait!! Don't forget if you enjoyed this episode make sure to head over to The Early Years Network where you can find a world of early years training and development at your finger tips at a click of a button. All for just £4.99 a month.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode of *Little Minds, Big Ideas*, Ben and Emily from The Early Years Network dive into the essential topic of school readiness. They kick off by sharing exciting updates from their learning platform and discuss a new, innovative payment concept for parents emerging from Warwickshire.
The heart of the episode is all about understanding what it truly means to be 'school ready.' With insights drawn from your feedback on Instagram, Ben and Emily explore key ideas that define school readiness, while also debunking common myths surrounding child development and the primary curriculum. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or simply passionate about early childhood education, this episode offers a thoughtful and engaging discussion that will leave you with practical tips and a deeper understanding of how to best support the little minds in your life. Tune in for an episode full of valuable insights and a few surprises along the way!
Don't forget if you enjoyed this podcast make sure to head over to The Early Years Network where you can find a world of early years training and development at your finger tips at a click of a button. All for just £4.99 a month.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this weeks episode of Little Minds, Big Ideas Ben takes a back seat as Emily is joined by the wonderful nursery manager Rachael!
This week the girls are discussing ways in which parents can provide their little one’s the very best start in nursery, or more specifically the do’s and don’ts when packing a nursery backpack.
So, join two best friends explore what really should be going into an early bag, and how you as parents, can very easily make the lives of all early years educators so much easier!
Don't forget if you enjoyed this podcast make sure to head over to The Early Years Network where you can find a world of early years training and development at your finger tips at a click of a button. All for just £4.99 a month.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode of Little Minds, Big Ideas, hosts Ben and Emily dive into Chapter 7 of Lisa Feldman Barrett's thought-provoking book "Seven and a Half Lessons About the Brain." Join them as they unpack the concept of social reality and explore how our brains construct the world around us through shared social understanding.
Ben and Emily delve into the "5 C's" outlined in the chapter, discussing their relevance to Early Childhood Education. They provide insights into how these principles can shape the way we teach and nurture young minds, helping educators and parents alike foster more effective and empathetic learning environments.
Tune in for a deep and insightful conversation that connects brain science to the foundational stages of childhood development, offering practical takeaways for anyone involved in early education.
Don't forget if you enjoyed this podcast make sure to head over to The Early Years Network where you can find a world of early years training and development at your finger tips at a click of a button. All for just £4.99 a month.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Join us for a heartfelt and joyful episode of the Little Minds, Big Ideas podcast with this special edition episode as we say goodbye to our wonderful guests, Bea and Ruby, before they head off to big school in September. In this final episode, the girls share their favourite memories of nursery, the things they enjoyed most, and what they will miss the most.
Listen in as Bea and Ruby discuss their feelings about starting big school, their hopes for the future, and what they dream of becoming. This farewell chat is filled with laughter, nostalgia, and the excitement of new beginnings.
Tune in to celebrate Bea and Ruby’s incredible journey through nursery and wish them all the best as they embark on their next adventure!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this exciting episode of the Little Minds, Big Ideas Podcast, we jump into the world of the Olympic Games and the power of sport. We're diving headfirst into the world of the Olympic Games and uncovering how these epic events can shape our youngest minds.
Remember those goosebumps while watching the Olympics as a kid? We do too!
Let's relive those inspiring moments and see how sport and physical movement can spark so much learning and development during such a crucial stage of human development!
Don't forget if you enjoyed this podcast make sure to head over to The Early Years Network where you can find a world of early years training and development at your finger tips at a click of a button. All for just £4.99 a month.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this week's episode, "The Episode All About Self-Expression," hosts Ben and Emily dive into the vibrant world of self-expression and its vital role in early childhood development. Join them as they explore the importance of freedom in creativity, the necessity of emotional support, and how confidence is built through embracing individuality. They discuss how no two minds are the same and the critical role of communication and experiences in shaping unique self-expression.
Their conversation extends to the debates around school uniforms, the use of makeup, and hairstyles as forms of self-expression. They even touch on the broader implications in politics and societal norms. Tune in for an insightful and lively discussion that underscores the importance of allowing young minds to flourish through self-expression. Don't miss this engaging episode of your favourite early years podcast, packed with thought-provoking insights and practical advice for parents and educators alike.
Don't forget if you enjoyed this podcast make sure to head over to The Early Years Network where you can find a world of early years training and development at your finger tips at a click of a button. All for just £4.99 a month.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this week's episode of Little Minds, Big Ideas hosts Ben and Emily take inspiration from the BBC show hosted by Frank Skinner, Room 101. Join them as they humorously and critically nominate three early years-related "things" they would love to banish forever into Room 101.
From the daily struggles with pull-ups, shoelaces, and impractical clothing for babies to the broader issues of false Ofsted complaints, lifeguarding, and over-protecting children, Ben and Emily share their candid thoughts and personal experiences. They delve into why these aspects can be so frustrating and how addressing them could lead to a smoother, more effective early years environment.
Expect a lively discussion filled with relatable anecdotes, thoughtful critique, and plenty of laughs. Ben and Emily tackle the quirky and sometimes maddening aspects of early childhood education, providing both entertainment and insightful commentary for educators, parents, and anyone invested in the world of early years learning. Don’t miss this engaging episode where nothing is off-limits, and everything is up for debate as Ben and Emily decide what deserves a permanent spot in Room 101.
Don't forget if you enjoyed this podcast make sure to head over to The Early Years Network where you can find a world of early years training and development at your finger tips at a click of a button. All for just £4.99 a month!!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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With the dust finally settling on last week's general election, Ben and Emily have decided to take a deep dive into one of the most contentious topics of the election debate: the future of Ofsted and the pressing need for potential reform. Over the past few decades, frustration and disillusionment have been brewing within the early years sector and the wider education community regarding the role and impact of Ofsted.
In this compelling episode, Ben and Emily tackle this critical issue head-on. They explore the various arguments and perspectives surrounding Ofsted's current practices, the criticisms it faces, and the calls for change. Drawing on expert opinions, personal anecdotes, and comprehensive research, they aim to unravel the complexities of this debate and shed light on what a reformed Ofsted could look like for educators, students, and parents alike.
Join them for an insightful and thought-provoking discussion as they navigate the intricacies of educational oversight and its implications for the future of teaching and learning in the UK. Whether you're an educator, a parent, or simply interested in the evolving landscape of education, this episode is sure to provide valuable insights and stimulate meaningful conversation.
Don't forget if you enjoyed this podcast make sure to head over to The Early Years Network where you can find a world of early years training and development at your finger tips at a click of a button. All for just £4.99 a month!!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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And just like that we're back!!!
After a month off podcast duty Ben & Emily return for season 3 of the Little Minds, Big Ideas Podcast, and what a return it is!
This week they're jumping straight into the UK General Election and what it means for the early years industry. They'll take you through each of the main parties manifesto pledges dedicated to the world of early years, though it is slim pickings to say the least! Explore the impact these ideas and potential policies will likely have on the sector, as well as, discussing the overall landscape and challenges our industry faces.
So here's to another wonderful season of early years podcasting!
Don't forget if you enjoyed this podcast make sure to head over to The Early Years Network where you can find a world of early years training and development at your finger tips at a click of a button. All for just £4.99 a month!!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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This week on the podcast, Emily and Ben dive into the fascinating world of white lies, focusing especially on the small, often innocent fibs our parents told us as children. They explore a range of these common little deceptions, from the classic "Santa Claus is real" to the more creative "If you swallow gum, it will stay in your stomach for seven years." Tune in to hear amusing anecdotes, psychological insights, and a nostalgic look back at the harmless myths that shaped our childhoods.
If you love the Little Minds, Big Ideas podcast then why not head over to The Early Years Network and unlock a world of early years training and development.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Join Ben and Emily this week on Little Minds, Big Ideas as they dive into some of the most pressing issues affecting young minds today. In this episode, they explore the controversial topic of sex education bans for children under 9 and the implications this has for early childhood development. They also discuss the upcoming mental health class initiatives, highlighting how these programs aim to equip kids with the tools they need for emotional well-being.
The hosts take a deep dive into the common societal urge to reassure others with "it’s okay," and how we can shift our mindsets to foster genuine, positive mental health. In honour of Mental Health Week, Ben and Emily share personal experiences and stories that underscore the importance of mental health awareness and support. Additionally, they examine the impact and dangers of social media on mental health, offering insights into how young people can navigate the digital world safely and mindfully. Tune in for a heartfelt and informative discussion that promises to leave you with a deeper understanding of the mental health challenges and opportunities facing our children today.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode of "Little Minds, Big Ideas," Emily has been ejected from the host seat as Ben welcomes a very special guest, Claudio Sisera from 'Male Childcare & Teaching Jobs,' to the studio. Together, they embark on a captivating exploration of the role of men in early childhood education.
Delving deep into the conversation, Ben and Claudio highlight the multitude of benefits that come with male representation in the childcare sector. From providing diverse role models to offering unique perspectives, they shed light on why it's crucial to encourage more men to pursue careers in early years education. However, they don't shy away from addressing the challenges and barriers that men may encounter along the way. From societal stereotypes to systemic obstacles, Ben and Claudio engage in a candid discussion about the realities of being a man in a predominantly female-dominated profession.
As the conversation unfolds, they also cast a hopeful gaze towards the future, envisioning a landscape where men are not only welcomed but celebrated in early childhood education. They explore potential solutions and strategies for fostering inclusivity and equality within the field, inspiring listeners to join the movement towards positive change.
Tune in to this enlightening episode as Ben and Claudio navigate the complexities and possibilities of men in childcare, inviting listeners to rethink traditional perceptions and embrace a more inclusive vision for the future of education. 🎧
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Welcome to "Little Minds, Big Ideas," the podcast where we dive deep into the world of early childhood development with your hosts, Emily and Ben, from The Early Years Network. Join us as we unravel the mysteries of those crucial first years of life, exploring topics, news, and insights that illuminate the importance of early childhood education.
Join Emily and Ben as they bring their expertise and passion to the forefront, delving into topics ranging from cognitive development to effective teaching strategies, all while weaving in anecdotes and experiences from their work at The Early Years Network. Through casual chats and thought-provoking dialogue, they uncover the latest trends, news, and research shaping the early years landscape.
Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply curious about the fascinating world of early childhood, "Little Minds, Big Ideas" is your go-to podcast. Together, let's celebrate the wonder of childhood and champion the significance of investing in our youngest learners. Tune in, subscribe, and join us on this enriching journey into the magical realm of early years development.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Welcome to 'Little Minds, Big Ideas,' episode 24 where Ben and Emily delve into the enchanting realm of storytelling in early childhood education.
Discover the profound impact of stories and storybooks on young minds, as we explore their pivotal role in fostering imagination, language development, and social-emotional skills.
Join us as we share practical strategies, expert insights, and engaging anecdotes to inspire and empower educators in nurturing the next generation of storytellers.
And of course, we'll sprinkle in some Harry Potter chat along the way, because who doesn't love a bit of magic in education?
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Welcome to "Little Minds, Big Ideas," the podcast where we explore the fascinating world of childhood development and parenting strategies to nurture young minds. Join your hosts Ben & Emily as they delve into the latest research, expert insights, and practical tips to support children's growth and development. In each episode, Ben & Emily unpack a different aspect of early childhood development, from nutrition and cognitive development to social-emotional skills and beyond. With a focus on empowering parents and caregivers, they provide actionable advice and evidence-based strategies to help children thrive.
In this episode all about being curious, Emily and Ben explore a number of topics in an action packed episode! Starting with a deep dive into some of the latest news in the world of early years, before exploring the topic of STEM and discussing some of the latest classes soon to be available over on The Early Years Network.
Whether you're a parent, caregiver, educator, or anyone interested in children's health and well-being, "Little Minds, Big Ideas" is your go-to resource for navigating the exciting journey of early childhood development. Join Ben & Emily as they share big ideas for little minds, one episode at a time.
As always if you enjoyed this podcast make sure to head over to The Early Years Network and discover a world of early years training and development for just £4.99 a month!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Welcome to "Little Minds, Big Ideas," the podcast where we explore the fascinating world of childhood development and parenting strategies to nurture young minds. Join your hosts Ben & Emily as they delve into the latest research, expert insights, and practical tips to support children's growth and development. In each episode, Ben & Emily unpack a different aspect of early childhood development, from nutrition and cognitive development to social-emotional skills and beyond. With a focus on empowering parents and caregivers, they provide actionable advice and evidence-based strategies to help children thrive.
In this episode all about nourishing young minds, Ben & Emily dive into the importance of prioritising nutrient-dense foods for children's health and well-being. They discuss the critical role of fruits and vegetables in providing essential vitamins, minerals, and fibre for growing bodies. Drawing on the latest research in neuroscience and nutrition, they explore why early experiences with food are so crucial and offer practical tips for introducing healthy eating habits from an early age.
But it's not just about nutrition – Ben & Emily also address the current social issues surrounding rising food prices and food insecurity levels, highlighting the challenges faced by families in accessing nutritious foods. Through insightful discussions and inspiring stories, they empower listeners to make informed choices and create a positive food environment for their children.
Whether you're a parent, caregiver, educator, or anyone interested in children's health and well-being, "Little Minds, Big Ideas" is your go-to resource for navigating the exciting journey of early childhood development. Join Ben & Emily as they share big ideas for little minds, one episode at a time.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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