Episode 10: The benefits of outdoor learning with Niki Buchan

In episode 10 of the TTS Talking Early Years Podcast, International Educational Consultant and nature-based learning advocate, Niki Buchan, shares why it is so vital for practitioners and childcare settings to engage children in nature-based learning. Stimulating environments Outdoor play offers a new and exciting learning opportunity daily. The great outdoors is a stimulating environment for…

20 February 2023

Early Years Inspire TTS

Learning through risk by The Wolds Day Nursery

The Wolds Day Nursery share their journey with us, explaining how they introduced risk taking into their learning. The start of the journey At The Wolds, we have been very fortunate regarding our space and have always wanted to use this to the best effect. We found that our children were given limited opportunities to take…

16 February 2023

Niki Buchan Outdoor Podcast Series 1

Episode 9: Understanding nature-based pedagogy with Niki Buchan

The great outdoors offers so many opportunities for interpretation and choice, providing children with enriching learning experiences. Throughout this podcast episode, nature pedagogue and author, Niki Buchan, explores the concept of nature-based learning in the early years. Taking it right back to basics, Niki explains what nature-based practice is, answering questions such as what it looks…

13 February 2023

Early Years Inspire TTS

Getting started with learning through risk

What does learning through risk mean and what are the benefits? Learning through risk can come in many guises. From children using scissors, and climbing trees to riding a bike, all are activities that include an element of risk. Although we can sometimes be cautious about adding an element of risk into learning, it’s about…

13 February 2023

Ellen Sandseter Outdoor Podcast Series 1

Episode 8: Adopting a relaxed approach to risk-taking in the Early Years with Ellen Sandseter

Throughout this episode, Ellen Sandseter, researcher and expert in Children’s Risky Play, shares practical tips and guidance for adopting a more relaxed approach to children’s risk-taking in the Early Years. Reflective practice Have you ever considered taking your next staff meeting outdoors to immerse yourself in some of those thrill-seeking adventures our children are encouraged to…

7 February 2023

Early Years Podcast TTS

Meet Podcast Guest: Mel McCree

Mel is a Senior Lecturer within Early Childhood Studies. She leads modules in Children’s Voices (rights and justice), Play and Playfulness, and Research in Early Childhood. Mel joined Bath Spa in 2018, previously working as a senior researcher and lecturer at UWE and Plymouth University. She has experience as a mentor, trainer, creative outdoor practitioner,…

2 February 2023

Early Years Inspire TTS

6 ways to use Creative Construction Crates

In this article, we share 6 ways to use the TTS Creative Construction Creates in your setting. The Creative Crates are perfect for motor skills, collaborative play, language development, and so much more. 1. Become an architect! Construct and create a den! Children will enjoy building their own creations by stacking the crates neatly on top…

2 February 2023

Ellen Sandseter Outdoor Podcast Series 1

Episode 7: How our understanding of risk is changing with Ellen Sandseter

Throughout this episode, Ellen Sandseter, researcher and expert in Children’s Risky Play, explores how approaches to learning through risk have changed over time (and are still evolving) and what this means in terms of effective learning for children. Alistair and Ellen encourage practitioners not to fear challenging what they might usually consider being seen as ‘too…

31 January 2023

Ellen Sandseter Outdoor Podcast Series 1

Episode 6: The benefits of risk-taking in the Early Years with Ellen Sandseter

Throughout this episode, Ellen Sandseter, researcher and expert in Children’s Risky Play, talks about the fundamental benefits of learning through risk in early childhood and why practitioners must also not be afraid to take a little bit of risk in their practice too. Ellen breaks this down into two parts, looking at the subjective experiences and…

26 January 2023

Ellen Sandseter Outdoor Podcast Series 1

Episode 5: An Introduction to learning through risk with Ellen Sandseter

How much risk is too much risk? Throughout this episode, Ellen Sandseter, researcher and expert in Children’s Risky Play, introduces the concept of learning through risk, also referred to as Risky Play, in early childhood. Alistair and Ellen delve into the benefits of creating open-ended outdoor spaces that allow and encourage children to explore the risks they…

18 January 2023

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