This conference by the National Children's Bureau will aim to build on the exciting possibilities of the new initiatives for special needs children in the early years, and try to allay any feelings of trepidation that change inevitably brings.
Commonwealth Conference Centre, Kensington High Street, London. Cost from 100. Contact Allie Hamilton on 020 7843 6041.
Mathematics in reception
This BEAM Education course will look at how young children progress in mathematics and how to provide a stimulating environment for them. It will include a range of practical activities and guidance on managing the transition from nursery to reception.
Barnsbury Centre, Islington, London. Cost 120. Contact Nadine Bailey or Karen Jardine on 020 7684 3324.
14 December. Practical life activities - with a winter theme
This course by Ranelagh House will consider the importance of reality-based play, exploring the aims and principles of Practical Life activities. There will also be hands-on involvement, with a particular emphasis on seasonally-related activities.
The Bar Convent Conference Centre, York. Cost 50. Contact Maggie Tait on 01759 302 638.
Arts extra
Held once a month on Saturday mornings until 5 July 2003, this season of Arts Extra sessions by the Arts Development Unit at West Yorkshire Playhouse will provide practical ideas and refreshing new ways to keep children creatively occupied.
West Yorkshire Playhouse, Quarry Hill, Leeds. Cost 8 per session or 55 for eight sessions. Contact Lisa Parrott or Ruth Hannant on 0113 213 7290/5.
10 January. Developing skills in observing young children
Staff working within the Foundation Stage will find support in this course by the Institute of Education in developing their observation and recording skills, evaluating their observations and making assessments and making links between observation, assessment and planning.
Institute of Education, London. 10am to 3.30pm. Cost 100. Contact 020 7612 6589/6591.
11 January. Supporting children's physical development
This seminar by Montessori Centre International will look at the importance of movement in children's learning and will explore a range of activities offered by the Montessori classroom which develop fine and gross movement and balance. It will look also at how to combine outdoor and indoor learning.
Montessori Centre International, 18 Balderton Street, London. 10am to 4pm.
Cost 45. Contact the Centre on 020 7493 0165.
18 January. Activities for the under-twos
Topics include evaluating and choosing equipment, treasure baskets and heuristic play and physical, sensory and language development.
High Wycombe. 10 am to 4pm. Cost 30, or 25 if booked by 18 December. Contact CJ Associates on 07802 427 074.
