Nurturing Planet Champions
We are facing an alarming disconnect between children and the natural world. Despite the wealth of knowledge at our fingertips, it seems that environmental responsibility is not being instilled in our youngest learners early enough. A recent visit to Bali opened my eyes to the stark reality of environmental neglect—monkeys drinking from discarded plastic water bottles, and underwater landscapes ruined by floating rubbish. These vivid examples made me realise how disconnected we have become from the environment. When you are snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, only to find that your photograph is ruined by floating plastic, it’s a powerful wake-up call to the urgent need for change.
The importance of teaching children to care for our planet cannot be overstated. If we do not educate our children from the earliest opportunity about environmental responsibility, how can we expect them to protect our planet in the future? The disconnect between children and nature is growing at an alarming rate. When a three-year-old child is asked, ‘Where does food come from?’ and answers, ‘Tesco’ (other supermarkets are available!), it highlights a significant gap in their understanding of how food is grown and the importance of caring for the earth that sustains us.
It’s not enough for us to simply acknowledge the environmental crisis—our youngest children need to experience and understand their role in protecting the planet. We must teach them the joy of growing their own produce, whether it’s from a small seedling they’ve tended to or fruits and vegetables they’ve nurtured from start to finish. It’s also crucial that they understand the importance of recycling, and that small actions—such as turning off lights, saving water, and reducing waste—make a significant impact on the environment.
At Canopy Nurseries, we are fully committed to embedding environmental respect in our curriculum. Our Canopy Cares programme offers immersive learning experiences where children can connect with nature, learn how to grow food, and develop a lifelong respect for the planet. These hands-on experiences are invaluable, not just for their education but for the world they will inherit.
Teaching our children to be conscious of their environmental footprint, respect nature, and take action to protect the planet is vital for a sustainable future. At Canopy Nurseries, we aim to equip our youngest learners with the knowledge and skills they need to become dedicated planet champions. Through environmental education, we can raise a generation that not only understands the importance of sustainability but actively contributes to it.
Are We Raising a Risk-Averse Generation?
The Pressures Facing Early Years Children
Everyone is talking about adolescence, with the powerful drama highlighting the struggles and challenges facing today’s teenagers. But the pressures of modern life are just as real for our early year’s children—particularly in a post-COVID world.
With increasing screen time muting the power of conversation and the digital world of scrolling shortening our attention spans, our youngest children are not developing the cognitive tools they need to be curious, investigate, explore, and ask those all-important ‘why’ questions.
The constant access to news at our fingertips also means we are hyper-aware of potential risks, often leading to overprotective tendencies. Are we shielding children too much—stopping them from climbing trees in case they fall, avoiding messy play in fear of dirt, and always quick to shout “be careful” instead of “think about how you can do that safely”?
Risk-taking is a fundamental part of life. Learning to navigate challenges with a ‘can-do’ approach is a key life skill that should be nurtured from an early age. If we do not encourage resilience, are we raising a generation of overly cautious and risk-averse future adults? Success is so much sweeter when achieved through effort and perseverance. We must build a curriculum that fosters a growth mindset—one that teaches children to overcome challenges, think about how they CAN do something, and not focus on what they cannot.
In business, resilience is the number one skill I look for when recruiting franchisees. One of the promises I make to our franchise partners is that they will face challenges and setbacks. Expecting an easy journey is unrealistic, but overcoming obstacles builds strength and success.
Even five years after the start of the COVID pandemic, children are entering school without the independence skills they need for this important stage of life. We must prioritise a curriculum that encourages children to try, persevere, and develop independence. Spilling a drink while learning to use a big cup or putting a shoe on the wrong foot should be celebrated as progress, not avoided due to fear of mistakes.
When we launched Canopy Nurseries, we felt it was pivotal to introduce our Canopy Code curriculum. Canopy Code is the foundation we embrace in every Canopy Nursery. Put simply, it defines the skills and behaviours we want children to develop to ensure they are fully equipped and ready for their next steps. We want our children to be curious explorers, confident communicators, independent learners, and inquisitive thinkers. With these skills firmly embedded, they will be prepared for their transition into school and beyond.
By embracing a supportive, challenge-positive approach to early years education, we can equip children with the confidence, adaptability, and resilience they need to navigate life’s challenges and thrive in their future learning environments.
Parenting today
What do today’s parents need?
Quality nurseries have always worked hard to provide a caring and positive learning environment for the children in their care and to build relationships with parents which are based on trust and respect.
At Canopy Nurseries we talk about understanding the needs of today’s parents. To show what we mean by this, this Blog will examine certain aspects of modern life which impact young families and how they affect their needs and priorities.
Becoming a parent requires a bigger adjustment to our lives:
Compared to previous generations, we are hitting key milestones later in our lives. This includes finishing full-time education, leaving home, getting married and having children. During our extended child-free years we have got used to working, working out and socialising, holidaying and sleeping when it suits us in a culture which prioritises self-care and wellbeing. This means that it can be more difficult to adapt to the practicalities of being a parent, prioritising your child’s care and needs over your own. Whilst every new parent will cope with this change in their own way, becoming a parent is commonly acknowledged to be more challenging and time-consuming than anticipated. If we factor in that many young families have a smaller support network as they tend to live farther away from their parents/extended families and are less likely to be closely connected to their neighbours and local community, adapting to this new way of life can become overwhelming.
Support and connection from the earliest stage helps new parents to adapt to their new way of life.
We are juggling more:
the traditional husband as the breadwinner and wife as home maker/carer arrangement may be considered too restrictive and old-fashioned in today’s world but it did achieve a clear division of labour so that husband and wife could work together efficiently as a team, each specialising in their clearly defined areas of responsibility. Today, with over 70% of Mums in employment, everyone is trying to do everything; managing careers and home lives, keeping fit and healthy as well as maintaining relationships and personal passions. As a result, it is more difficult to manage our time to fit in everything we wish to achieve.
Speed and efficiency are vital and effective technology at their fingertips to help parents to manage their lives is a base line expectation.
Awareness and Anxiety:
It seems unthinkable that in past decades parents would let their children go out for the day completely unsupervised with no way of contacting them. Today
we are far more aware of the dangers which could be present in our communities and environment and so our culture has become more protective of children. As a result, we keep our children closer to us and supervise their lives in more detail. Whilst our children’s immediate physical safety is paramount, this mindset extends to an awareness that the experiences that children have in their early years set the foundations for their lives so there is also increased parental anxiety about getting the balance right across all areas of their child’s life.
Parents assess security systems and prioritise the most robust protections to ensure that their children are safe. At the same time, they wish to give their children opportunities to build their independence and resilience so that they will thrive in this changing world. (see next Blog!)
Information overload:
Technology and media provides a plethora of information and advice for every aspect of our lives. Whilst this can be helpful and motivating, it can also foster feelings of dissatisfaction and guilt as we are bombarded by images, stories and opinions which can seem to push the narrative that others are achieving more and we and our children should be striving harder to excel in every aspect of our lives.
Parents benefit from building trusted face to face relationships where honest and open communication focuses on reassuring good parents that they are doing well and should trust their own judgement.
Increased cost of living
The most dramatic long-term change in our cost of living has been the relative price of housing which has doubled from nearly 4 times the average salary in 1970 to almost 8 times the average salary today. This means that it now takes two people’s salaries to be able to afford to buy a house. Inflation rates since 2022, particularly in food and energy prices, have further squeezed household budgets. This requires both parents to work to afford basic amenities such as housing, food and energy and fosters a need for excellent value for money.
Boundaries are becoming blurred
Spurred on by the pandemic, work and home life across multiple professions is becoming more interchangeable as flexible working practices become normalised and technology facilitates remote working. This is more likely to be viewed positively by parents as it releases time from commuting and enables parents to work more flexibly around their children. The knock on effect is that parents will want to see this degree of choice and flexibility reflected across all areas of their lives.
There have also been many other positive changes in society which help young families (such as improved healthcare services, increased parental leave, funded childcare hours, safeguarding legislation, time and labour-saving products and services, technological advances, baby classes and parenting groups etc) but modern life continues to change at an ever-faster rate which results in new and changing challenges.
In conclusion, parents’ decisions are driven by their practical needs, for security, speed, efficiency, flexibility and value for money, together with their emotional needs, for trust, reassurance, support and connection. Canopy Nurseries work to provide a nursery experience which extends beyond more traditional boundaries to deliver across all of these needs, bringing more harmony to the busy lives of our parents.
Useful Sources:
Raising Resilient Children
Helping Young Minds Thrive in a Changing World
Why is this important?
Poor mental health among our young people is on the rise and they now have the poorest mental health of any age group. More than a third of 18 to 24 year olds reported symptoms of a mental disorder, such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder and 5% (one in 20) are unable to work as a result of ill health. This is a complete reversal from two decades ago when it was always older people who were the most likely to be not working due to ill health.
We need to understand what is happening to our young people so that we can help to prepare our own loved ones to navigate these challenges and can collaborate as a society to counteract the negative influences which are driving this.
Why are our young people struggling with their mental health?
Our society and culture are changing at an ever-increasing rate, leading to issues affecting today’s children in a way which was not experienced by their parents:
- We are very comfortable: Most of us have control of our immediate environment ensuring that we are rarely hungry, thirsty, cold, hot, in pain or without stimulation. This means that our children are not used to coping with discomfort or boredom, taking it for granted that these basic needs will be anticipated and met and requiring more from life to feel satisfied.
- We live in an uncertain world: At the same time, we feel as if we have less control over the wider world which is filled with uncertainty, misinformation, conflict and escalating problems. These issues anger and worry adults and children are affected by the emotions of the people close to them.
- We prioritise safety and protection: We have become hyper-aware of the possibility of harm and danger all around us and so we monitor and supervise our children’s lives closely to avoid any risks of them being hurt. In order to protect their children from pain, some parents try to take care of every problem their child encounters.
- We have fewer real-life connections: We also tend to live further away from our families and are less connected with our neighbours and communities so children have got used to being in the house and with their parents most of the time, particularly since the pandemic.
We spend more time on screens and social media: If not channelled correctly, technology can have a negative impact on the lives of children in a number of ways;
- from raising unrealistic expectations and isolating them from real life relationships to enabling harassment and connecting them to negative influences.
- We strive to succeed: we expect a lot of ourselves and our children can also feel the pressure to excel academically, socially and at their hobbies which can lead to stress and anxiety.
The effect of these factors is that children’s lives have become increasingly constrained as they are under almost constant surveillance with regular adult intervention and pressure to conform to adult expectations whilst spending less time playing freely outside with their friends.
This drastically reduces our children’s opportunities to build their own resourcefulness and work out how to best get along with others but it is only by doing this that they can build the resilience to cope with life’s challenges.
How can we make a difference?
Childhood experiences set the foundations for our lives so we must remain mindful of the influence that we can have on the mental health of the children in our care.
Bonding with young children so that they feel loved and safe is the cornerstone for all development and learning and from this we can all work to promote mental resilience in children from their earliest years.
It starts with maintaining a daily routine to ensure good self-care which involves:
- Eating a varied and balanced diet
- Getting a good night’s sleep
- Physical exercise and activity
Establishing healthy habits as well as clear boundaries about what is right and wrong, we create a backdrop of structure and consistency which helps children to feel safe and reassured.
Within this we should give children plenty of opportunities to:
- Engage in free, unstructured play: To develop their creativity, imagination and problem-solving skills. The best play often happens after children have complained of being bored and when they accept that adults are not going to provide the entertainment so they take responsibility for amusing themselves.
- Enjoy face-to-face interactions with other children: To enable them to build and navigate different types of relationships with others.
Experience struggle and failure: In this way children realise that making mistakes is normal and they can cope with adversity. By trying different strategies and
- eventually succeeding, they will gain immense satisfaction and confidence in their abilities.
- Get outside: Spending time in the natural world is proven to have a calming effect on us as we benefit from fresh air, natural light and interacting with nature. For children in particular, it promotes physical activity, adventure and freedom from the restraints of being indoors.
- Try something new: This demonstrates that the world is full of exciting possibilities and builds confidence to explore and experiment.
- Listen to stories: Stories can be very meaningful to children as they illustrate how people can suffer but ultimately good triumphs over evil which is reassuring, especially in times of trouble.
We can encourage children to:
- Talk to us: Putting their feelings into words helps children to understand and regulate themselves more effectively. It also helps us to support and encourage them and to celebrate their achievements.
- Be optimistic: By focusing on the positive possibilities and outcomes rather than dwelling on the negative, we can help children to be brave and face challenges.
- Be considerate of others: Prompting children to think about other people’s situations and feelings encourages empathy which leads to a healthy realisation that everyone has a different perspective and the world does not revolve around them. Taking action to help or be kind builds self-esteem and appreciation of gratitude.
- Keep moving forwards: Children look to you for clues on how they should react. If, for example, a child has a minor tumble and you react dramatically then they are far more likely to become inconsolable and take time to recover than if you treat it as a minor inconvenience and expect them to jump up and carry on. This does not mean that you don’t acknowledge or discuss an upset but by setting the expectation that it doesn’t stop you from moving forwards in some way, you can prevent it from becoming more debilitating than it needs to be.
- Approach life with gentle humour: Helping your child to find the humour in a difficult situation can take the sting out of it, enabling them to take it and themselves less seriously.
Our reactions to events affect how children view the world so we can all model resilience by demonstrating that problems are an interesting part of every day life and are there to be solved.
Encouraging children to solve their problems themselves will build their confidence to do so repeatedly until it becomes second nature, building a more resilient young adult.
Here is a few links to useful sources:
World Book Day
World Book Day
World Book Day, celebrated annually in the UK on the first Thursday of March, is a wonderful opportunity to spark a love for reading in children. It’s a day dedicated to the magic of books, storytelling, and imagination.
At our nurseries, we embrace this day by encouraging children to dress up as their favourite book characters and engaging them in fun, literacy-focused activities.
1. Storytime Adventures
Organize a special storytime session featuring classic tales or the children’s favorite books. Add some props or costumes to make the stories come alive!
2. Craft Your Own Storybook
Get creative by helping children design their own storybooks. They can draw pictures, create characters, and dictate their story for an adult to write down.
3. Book Exchange
Host a book swap where children can bring in a book they’ve already read and exchange it for a new one. This promotes sharing and introduces them to new stories.
4. Dressing Up as Characters
Dressing up as beloved book characters brings the stories to life. Whether it’s The Gruffalo, Peter Rabbit, or Harry Potter, this activity always excites children.
5. Literacy-Themed Games
Games like “Guess the Book,” where children describe a story without naming it, or matching characters to their books can make the day even more fun.
Let’s make World Book Day 2025 a memorable celebration of imagination and literacy! How will you celebrate this special day?
The Reggio Emilia approach
Educational Philosophy
Reggio Emilia is an educational philosophy and approach to teaching young children that originated in the town of Reggio Emilia in Italy after World War II. It is based on the idea that children are capable of constructing their own learning and that they learn best through exploration and discovery in a supportive and nurturing environment
Teachers
This approach emphasizes the importance of collaboration between teachers, parents, and the community in providing a rich learning environment for children. Teachers act as facilitators, observing children’s interests and providing them with opportunities to explore and learn in a way that is meaningful and relevant to them.
Environment
The Reggio Emilia approach also values the role of the environment in learning. Classroom spaces are carefully designed to be visually appealing, with natural materials and open spaces that encourage exploration and creativity.
Outdoor Art Adventure
Nature Painting
Nature-based art provides a creative and interactive way for children to engage with the outdoors while developing their artistic abilities.
With all the rain lately, this nature-painting adventure works almost anywhere—whether in a park, forest school, or even the playground with a pan of water, chalk, or charcoal. The magic is always there!
Designing Your Nursery with Baby’s Brain Development in Mind
Explore how thoughtful nursery design can stimulate your baby’s brain development
Discover practical, evidence-based tips for designing a baby’s room that fosters development, encourages curiosity, and supports key milestones. From sensory-focused setups to nature-inspired touches, this article offers plenty of inspiration for creating a nurturing space.
A Christmas warning for families:
The Hidden Dangers of Cheap Toys Online
The holiday season is a time of joy and giving, but amidst the festive cheer, it’s important to remain vigilant about the safety of the toys we gift our children. While it’s natural to look for budget-friendly options, especially with the financial pressures many families face, buying cheap toys online can come with serious risks.
Not all toys sold online meet the strict safety standards required to protect children. Many counterfeit or unregulated toys may contain hazardous materials, such as toxic chemicals or small parts that pose choking risks. Worse still, some toys can be outright dangerous, with poor-quality construction leading to breakages, sharp edges, or electrical faults.
This Christmas, take extra care when shopping for toys:
- Buy from reputable retailers: Stick to trusted websites or well-known stores.
- Check for safety certifications: Look for markings like the CE label or UKCA symbol, which indicate compliance with safety standards.
- Read reviews: If a toy seems too good to be true, check what other buyers have said about it.
- Avoid unbranded or generic items: These are often cheaply made and poorly tested.
Every child deserves a safe and happy Christmas. Let’s make sure the gifts under the tree bring joy—not danger. For more information please find the link below:
Family Friendly St Albans
Nestled just 20 miles north of London, St Albans is a city that offers an enchanting blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and modern living. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or someone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the capital, St Albans has something to captivate everyone.
A Journey Through Time
St Albans boasts a rich tapestry of history that stretches back over 2,000 years. Originally known as Verulamium, it was one of the largest towns in Roman Britain. Visitors can step back in time at the Verulamium Museum, which houses fascinating Roman mosaics, artifacts, and reconstructions of daily life from the Roman era. Nearby, the remains of a Roman theatre—the only one of its kind in Britain—offer a glimpse into the entertainment of ancient times.
The city owes its name to Saint Alban, Britain’s first Christian martyr. The stunning St Albans Cathedral, built in his honor, dominates the skyline with its medieval architecture and serene beauty. With its long nave, exquisite stained glass windows, and peaceful gardens, it’s a must-visit for anyone exploring the city.
The Vibrant Market Town
Beyond its historical allure, St Albans is a thriving market town with a lively atmosphere. The St Albans Charter Market, held every Wednesday and Saturday, has been a staple since the 9th century. It’s the perfect place to shop for fresh produce, artisanal goods, and unique treasures.
The city centre is a hub of boutique shops, charming cafes, and diverse eateries. From cozy pubs serving traditional British fare to trendy restaurants offering international cuisines, there’s no shortage of options to satisfy your palate.
Green Spaces Galore
One of St Albans’ greatest charms is its abundance of green spaces. Verulamium Park, adjacent to the Roman ruins, is a picturesque spot for picnics, leisurely strolls, and family outings. The park features a serene lake, a splash park, and plenty of open space for outdoor activities.
For a more tranquil escape, the Watercress Wildlife Association Nature Reserve offers a peaceful haven where visitors can connect with nature and enjoy wildlife spotting.
Cultural Gems and Festivals
St Albans has a thriving cultural scene that includes theatres, art galleries, and live music venues. The Maltings Arts Theatre hosts an array of performances, from drama to comedy, while the St Albans Museum + Gallery provides a blend of contemporary exhibitions and local history.
The city also comes alive during its annual festivals, such as the St Albans Food and Drink Festival, Christmas Market, and Roman Festival, which celebrate its unique heritage and community spirit.
A Gateway to Adventure
St Albans’ location makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding countryside. With excellent transport links, you can easily venture into the nearby Chiltern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or explore other charming Hertfordshire towns.
Family Friendly St Albans
With its family-friendly atmosphere, excellent schools, and abundant green spaces, it is no surprise that St Albans is a popular choice for families. For parents looking for childcare options, the city offers a wide range of facilities and services designed to cater to children of all ages.
Childcare in St Albans
Here’s a comprehensive guide to the childcare options in St Albans.
- Day Nurseries
Day nurseries are a popular choice for working parents in St Albans. These facilities typically cater to children from six weeks to five years old, offering full- or part-time care.
Daynurseries.co.uk provides families searching for the right nursery for their child with an invaluable resource as it lists the nurseries in the area, together with detailed customer reviews to provide a taste of what to expect. Located in Bricket Wood, Canopy St Albans’ listing can be viewed here: Follow Link:
- Childminders
For families who prefer a smaller, home-like setting, registered childminders in St Albans provide an excellent option. Websites like Childcare.co.uk and Hertfordshire Family Centre Service list local registered childminders.
- Childminders
For families who prefer a smaller, home-like setting, registered childminders in St Albans provide an excellent option. Websites like Childcare.co.uk and Hertfordshire Family Centre Service list local registered childminders.
- Preschools and Playgroups
Preschools and playgroups focus on early learning and socialization for children aged 2–5. These are ideal for parents looking for part-time care that introduces their little ones to structured learning in a nurturing environment. They can often be found in local schools and community centres.
- After-School Clubs and Holiday Camps
For school-aged children, after-school clubs and holiday camps provide a fun and safe environment for continued care.
Fun Fest Holiday Clubs provide Ofsted registered holiday childcare for children from 3 – 12 years which means that all local childcare needs can be met. You can find out more here: Follow Link
- Nannies and Au Pairs
For families seeking a more tailored, in-home childcare solution, hiring a nanny or au pair is an excellent choice. Agencies like Tinies Hertfordshire and online platforms like Care.com help connect families with qualified professionals.
Support for Early Years Funding
Many parents in St Albans qualify for government-funded childcare, which can significantly reduce costs. To find out more about whether you are eligible and how to access this funding, please go to:
Keeping Your Little Ones Safe
Bonfire Night Safety Tips:
- Firework Safety: Keep children well away from fireworks and bonfires. Attend organised events whenever possible for a safer experience.
- Sparklers: Avoid giving sparklers to young children—glow sticks are a safer, fun alternative.
- Dress for Safety: Wear hats and scarves to protect against sparks, and ensure children stay a safe distance from any fires or fireworks.
Diwali Safety Tips:
- Lighting Diyas: If celebrating Diwali with candles or oil lamps, place them on stable surfaces, out of reach of children.
- Firework Safety: Similar to Bonfire Night, fireworks should be handled by adults, and children should watch from a safe distance.
- Home Safety: If using sparklers or fireworks at home, keep water nearby and make sure children know to stay back.
Halloween Safety Tips:
- Costume Safety: Choose flame-resistant costumes that fit well to prevent tripping. Avoid masks that obstruct vision—opt for face paint instead.
- Trick-or-Treating: Ensure children are always supervised and carry glow sticks or wear reflective gear to stay visible in the dark.
- Treats: Check all treats before letting children eat them to avoid any risks from allergies, unsealed or homemade items.
By following these simple safety tips, we can ensure children enjoy all the fun of the season while staying safe. Be sure to check out the free safety resources, available on the link below, to share with family and friends!
Canopy Nursery Potters Bar
Exciting News: Canopy Children’s Nurseries Expands to Potters Bar!
This marks an exciting milestone in our journey, and we couldn’t be prouder.
A huge congratulations to our talented franchise partners, Kunal Vasa and Kinner Shah, for their hard work and dedication in bringing this new nursery to life. Their passion for creating a nurturing and inspiring environment is sure to make this location a special place for children to grow and thrive.
We can’t wait to welcome, inspire, and delight the children of Potters Bar at Canopy Children’s Nurseries. Here’s to many wonderful adventures ahead!
Boost Your Child’s Early Development
Unlock Your Child’s Full Potential with Early Learning
Did you know that 90% of your child’s brain growth happens before they turn 5? Every little interaction—like a smile, cuddle, or chat—helps them learn and grow.
Discover easy tips and fun activities to support your child’s development.
Canopy Nursery St. Albans
Wishing Canopy Nursery St. Albans a very happy first birthday!
We are incredibly proud of everything this wonderful nursery has achieved in just one year. From creating a warm and nurturing environment for the children to fostering a love of learning and play, the impact has been truly remarkable.
Here’s to many more years filled with joy, laughter, and happy memories. May the future be as bright as the smiles you’ve brought to so many little faces. Congratulations to everyone at Canopy Nursery St. Albans!
Preparing children for holidays
Top Tips!
Here are some top tips to help prepare children for holidays:
1. Share holiday plans with your child’s nursery throughout the year, including overnight stays, weekends away or longer overseas trips so that they can help your child prepare for the experiences.
2. If children are going on a mode of transport such as an aeroplane, spend some time in the weeks ahead preparing them. Point out planes in the sky, explain how aeroplanes work or share books about air travel. This can be replicated for different modes of transport.
3. Carry out activities with children to help them to think about what they will need to take on holiday. For example, if they are going somewhere hot, they will need a sun hat, if they are going camping, they will need a tent etc.
4. Introduce holiday items and toys to your child to play with such as hats, suitcases, camping equipment, caravans, aeroplanes etc.
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5. Give children a blank notebook and pencil to take on holiday and encourage them to record their experiences in their own way, which could include marks, words, drawings, collected items etc. Use this to help children recall and share their holiday experiences. If possible, also share photos of holidays to encourage conversations and to share at nursery when they get back.
6. Families not going away can plan days out at home, visiting local places of interest. Museums and parks are often free to visit and children can be involved in planning and preparing a family picnic
A Family Affair!
Canopy St Albans News!
Karishma, owner of Canopy Nursery in St Albans, is expecting her first child with her husband Mihir, who has left the corporate world to help run their successful nursery. This heart warming story was recently featured in the BFA magazine. Read the full story here.
National Pet Day
National Pet Day
National Pet Day is a day designated to celebrate the joy that pets bring into our lives and to raise awareness about the plight of animals in shelters awaiting adoption. It’s an opportunity for pet owners to show appreciation for their furry, feathered, or scaly companions. and to consider ways to support animal welfare.
National Storytelling Week
National Storytelling
In the enchanting world of childhood, stories are the keys to unlocking imagination, fostering connection, and sparking a love of learning. Let’s dive into the joy of reading with our little ones this week. Share a cherished tale, embark on literacy adventures and watch as the pages of storytelling paint vibrant pictures in their minds.
The first Canopy Conference – In a Wood!
Canopy Conference
Not the usual setting for a conference but for Canopy it was perfect! Franchisees were welcomed to a unique outdoor nursery to discover how you can harness the benefits of the natural world for young children. This was such an inspiring session as everyone witnessed the children take ownership of their space and listened to Rachel’s impassioned explanation of how and why her setting works for them.
Spending time outdoors offers numerous benefits for children’s physical, mental, and emotional development and it is an essential part of the Canopy ethos to encourage and facilitate outdoor experiences for children to help them reap these benefits.
Rachel will visit every Canopy nursery over the coming weeks to assess their outdoor provision and to advise how it can be maximised for the benefit of the children. Following a warming lunch, the group headed back inside for a Leadership and Management session which focussed on building confidence in their ability to ace them their first Ofsted inspection.
Avoiding the Storms
Self Regulation in Children
Self-regulation in children refers to their ability to control their emotions, impulses, and adapt behaviour to different situations. It is a fundamental skill that gives children confidence to embrace challenges, make considerate decisions, and build resilience as they grow and learn.
Sweet Dreams
A consistent bedtime routine
Creating a predictable bedtime routine helps signal to your little one’s body that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep. Establish a soothing routine that includes activities like a sleepy snack and/or milk, a warm bath, story time and cuddles. Little ones thrive on consistency, so stick to the same routine every night.
Think about their sleeping environment
Make sure your little one’s bedroom – or yours if they are under six months – is quiet, cool and dark. You can use blackout curtains or blinds to make it nice and dark. It’s good to make sure it’s dark at nap time too. Consider using a pure white noise – on all night and for naps – if you have a noisy household or neighbours!
Consider how much day time sleep your little one is having
Little one’s day time needs vary by child but pay attention to age-appropriate nap needs and awake windows – and these change regularly from 4-8 months. A four-month-old would typically need around 3.5-4 hours or daytime sleep whereas an 8-month-old around 2-2.5 hours. Bear in mind this is the average, and some little ones will need more or less than this, plus it depends on how much overnight sleep they are having. Avoid danger naps – even a few minutes – or too close to bedtime, as this can interfere with falling asleep at night.
Activity, exercise and outdoor time
Getting outside can help expend your little one’s energy and promote better sleep. Encourage active playtime during the day, but make sure you avoid any that are too close to bedtime. Engaging in calming activities before their bedtime routine, can help your little one relax before they go to bed.
All of these pointers will help your little one when it comes to early morning waking too.
Make sure:
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- It’s not too light in their bedroom.
- That they have a good nap routine with the right amount of day time sleep for them.
- They are not going to bed under or over tired – as this will impact what time they wake in the morning.
- Be patient and persistent.
- Be consistent.
Little Dreams Consulting Ltd
Oral Health Guidance
Promoting good oral health
Ensuring good oral hygiene practices in childhood sets the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. As parents, caregivers, and educators, we play a crucial role in teaching children the importance of taking care of their teeth and gums. Here are a few key points:
- Start teaching them early
- Brush twice a day
- Make it fun
- Promote healthy eating habits
- Regular check ups at the dentist
Areas of Learning
Imagination
Encourage your child to use her imagination and creativity to tell a story. This can be done verbally or through drawings. Ask them questions about the characters and prompt them to develop their stories.
Activity
Turn up the music and have a dance with your child. Let them choose their favourite songs and encourage them to dance and move freely. This is a great way form of exercise made fun!
Creativity
Set up a designated area in your home for your child to create art. Provide a variety of materials such as paints, crayons, and paper. Encourage your child to experiment with different colours and techniques, and let him express himself freely.
Mathematics
Numbers are essential for everyday life such as counting, measuring, telling time and understanding money. Understanding numbers helps children communicate effectively to describe quantities, shapes and patterns. Numbers can help children participate in games and activities, such as counting or playing with money.
Recalled toys being sold online
Dodgy Dealer or Safe Seller
In recent years, there have been numerous cases of dodgy recalled children’s toys being sold online, which poses a serious risk to the safety of children. These toys may have been recalled by manufacturers due to defects that can cause injury or harm to children, but they still make their way into the market through third-party sellers.
The problem is particularly prevalent on online marketplaces, where sellers can easily create listings for products without proper scrutiny or regulation.
These recalled toys are often sold at discounted prices, making them attractive to unsuspecting buyers who are unaware of the dangers they pose.
It is important to be vigilant when purchasing toys for children, especially online. Always check the product’s safety record and look for any recalls or warnings from the manufacturer. If you have any doubts or concerns, it is best to err on the side of caution and avoid purchasing the product altogether.
By staying informed and taking proactive measures, we can ensure that our children can play safely and enjoy their childhood without any unnecessary risks.
Safer Sleep Week
Safer Sleep Week
The Safer Sleep guidelines were developed by the Lullaby Trust, a UK-based charity that promotes safe sleeping practices for babies to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Online Safety for Parents and Children
Keeping your Child safe online
Keeping your child safe online is an increasingly important concern for parents. The internet is a vast and ever-growing resource than can be both educational and entertaining, but it also poses certain risks to children. Here are some tips to keep your child safe while there’re online.
By following these tips, you can help keep your child safe while there’re online, and give them the tools they need to navigate the internet responsibly.
Bird Watching Early Years
Free interactive workbook to educate children about birds in fun and creative ways.
Birdwatching is a fun and exciting hobby, that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, including children!
Not only is it a great way to spend time outdoors, but it also allows children to learn about different types of birds and their habitats.
When out birdwatching, children can learn about the different behaviours of birds. They can observe how birds fly, feed and interact with each other. Children can also learn about the different sounds that birds make and what they might mean.
In addition to observing birds in the wild, children can also create a bird-friendly environment in their own backyard by putting up a bird feeder or birdhouse.
Canopy Wembley Park throws a party
Canopy Nursery Wembley Park Celebrate One Year
As children and parents are welcomed to their birthday party, Sagar and Rinu reflect on the community and the business they have built over the last 12 months.
“We now have the nursery of our dreams – a beautiful environment for young children in the heart of this busy, diverse community. Supporting our talented team of staff as they nurture and educate the children and building relationships with their families is so satisfying – we love it!”
So, what was it about Canopy that made Sagar and Rinu feel so confident that this was the right franchise for them?
Firstly, the Canopy brand, values and ethos resonated with them.
We have developed Canopy Children’s Nurseries as a fresh, new nursery concept which nurtures a unique ecosystem for babies and young children to grow, learn and thrive.
Our child-led approach to early years education creates rich environments where our unique pedagogy, ‘The Canopy Code’ can be delivered in a highly engaging way.
Curious explorers, confident communicators, independent learners and inquisitive thinkers are the life skills, attitudes and behaviours we want to nurture in our children, alongside the core EYFS curriculum.
Whilst each nursery is an entirely child-centred environment, Canopy has been developed with the needs of parents at the forefront of our minds; We listen to our customers and understand the many challenges facing today’s parents as they juggle the many demands on their time.
We work to build strong relationships with parents where they are involved and listened to. Not only is this fundamental in understanding their children but it also brings more harmony to family life.
This leads us on to the second important reassuring factor; the credentials of the franchisor.
The Canopy team bring a wealth of experience to the business, having run both nurseries and a franchise network.
I have a long career as a childcare provider, still owning a successful, highly regarded nursery in Solihull, and founded Fun Fest Holiday Club in 2014 which I subsequently franchised in 2017. Since then Fun Fest has grown steadily into a network of more than 30 clubs across the country.
Canopy was developed during lockdown, combining my team’s nursery and franchising experience with a desire to build an exciting and aspirational new brand in the nursery market.
Parents need different things from a nursery now from when I started in this business 17 years ago. Parents today work more remotely and autonomously which results in a demand for more convenient and flexible childcare to fit around their lifestyle. They expect state of the art security systems and digital technology which facilitates instant two-way communication with their child’s carers and educators. They prioritise nutrition, natural resources and outdoor play, seeking calm, natural environments where their children will be nurtured as individuals to reach their potential.
It is also encouraging to see the growing importance of ethical considerations in parents’ decision-making and this is the area where we are currently focusing our attention, developing a sustainability policy which will embed sustainable practices in all our settings and teach our children how to respect the natural world and each other.
The success of our first franchisees is crucial to demonstrate the strength of the brand and the business model. As Canopy Wembley Park exceeds performance expectations at the end of its first operating year, the mutually supportive relationship between us continues to strengthen.