It will probably not surprise you that the vast majority are not exactly in favour of what is being proposed.
The plan for childminder agencies is causing a lot of concern for childminders, as there seem to be so many unanswered questions at the moment, even though the pilots are due to start this September. And the DfE's request to Northamptonshire Childminding Association to supply only childminders who were positive or open-minded about agencies for a meeting with minister Liz Truss has led to no little outrage.
In the last issue of Nursery World, I made the case for fighting unwise proposals with rigorous evidence and rational arguments, and Sally Goddard Blythe's article 'Move on' (pages 14-15) is a brilliant example of this.
Sally explains why a move towards formal learning for children as young as two is counter-productive, as unless their physical development has progressed sufficiently, they will not be ready for reading and writing. Her years of research prove that developmental readiness is the key to learning success and that motor skills are an essential part of this process.
While it is impossible to ignore the 'More Great Childcare' rumpus, life, learning and development continue in early years settings across the country, of course. There are some fantastic articles in this issue, including Linda Pound's guide to pattern and its importance in the Early Years Foundation Stage - the first of a two-part series. Sue Chambers' behaviour Q&A series continues with a look at how to deal with a difficult parent; and we look at how one nursery is reaping the rewards of forest school.
