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Welcome to Little Minds, Big Ideas – the podcast where early years education meets inspiration, creativity, and a whole lot of fun! Hosted by passionate educators Emily Macfarlane and Ben Jones, this podcast is perfect for anyone invested in the world of early childhood, whether you're a teacher, parent, or just someone who believes in the power of young minds.
Every Monday, Emily and Ben bring you the latest updates and must-know news from the world of early years education, keeping you ahead of the curve on the trends, challenges, and innovations shaping the future of learning for little ones. But it doesn’t stop there! Expect lively debates and thoughtful discussions on the biggest issues in early childhood education today. Emily and Ben dive deep into the topics that matter, from learning through play to the importance of outdoor exploration, always balancing expert insights with practical takeaways.
Of course, no episode would be complete without a healthy dose of fun! Each week, you’ll find the show packed with games and lighthearted moments to keep things entertaining, making sure you end each episode with a smile. And when it’s time to get serious, Emily and Ben know how to tackle those tougher subjects too, offering real, relatable advice for navigating the ups and downs of working with young children.
As part of the Early Years Network family, Little Minds, Big Ideas is also your go-to spot for staying up-to-date with what’s new on the platform, giving you the inside scoop on exciting content, upcoming events, and valuable resources to help you be the best educator or caregiver you can be.
So, whether you’re tuning in during your morning commute, while setting up the classroom, or after a long day with your feet up, Little Minds, Big Ideas promises to deliver inspiration, information, and a bit of fun to fuel your passion for working with young children.
No interviews, no fluff—just two passionate hosts sharing big ideas for the little minds that shape our future.
Join us today over at www.theearlyyearsnetwork.co.uk and unlock a world of early years learning.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
73 Episodes
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In this festive episode of the Little Minds Big Ideas podcast with Ben and Emily from the Early Years Network, we wrap up our 2024 season. While discussing our holiday plans and new content for January 2025, we also dive into some fun segments like the Christmas Room 101 and debate the best Christmas movies. Amidst all the light-hearted fun, we touch upon deeper topics like the guilt that comes with the holiday season, and offer a heartfelt thank you for all the support throughout the year. Join us as we bid farewell to 2024 and look ahead to an exciting new year! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of 'Little Minds Big Ideas,' hosts Ben and Emily tackle sensitive topics such as child sexual abuse, rape, and sexual assault, particularly within family environments. They explore a recent damning report on systemic failures in safeguarding children, emphasising the need for better training, risk assessments, and multi-agency collaboration. The hosts share their experiences and insights on handling complex safeguarding issues in early years education, highlighting the importance of communication, proper training, and following procedures to protect vulnerable children. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of the Little Minds Big Ideas Podcast, hosts Ben and Emily discuss the importance of staff motivation in the realm of early years education. They highlight the impact of motivated staff on children's outcomes, team collaboration, and consistent attendance. The discussion covers various ways to show appreciation and recognise staff, such as professional development opportunities, autonomy, and positive reinforcement. They also touch on current news regarding childcare costs and share personal anecdotes about their experiences with team dynamics. The episode underscores the significance of creating a positive and supportive work environment to ensure the best outcomes for children. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of the Little Minds Big Ideas podcast, hosts Ben and Emily from the Early Years Network discuss various topical issues despite suffering from lingering coughs. They start with a light-hearted apology for their health and then delve into recent news about the American elections, touching upon Trump's educational policies. They explore the concept of 'culture capital' in depth, discussing how it impacts early years education, and touch upon broader social issues, multiculturalism, and the education system's role in preparing children for future success. The episode wraps up with a preview of upcoming content and events, including a discussion about their upcoming award ceremony. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Join Ben and Emily for a special Halloween edition of the Little Minds, Big Ideas Podcast. While Emily battles tonsillitis, they discuss their experiences with Halloween, share opinions on the spookiest holiday traditions, and debate what should go into their Halloween Room 101. From trick-or-treating mishaps to the controversy of pumpkin patches, they cover it all in this fun-filled episode!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.
Join hosts Ben and Emily in the latest episodes of the Little Minds, Big Ideas Podcast as they recount their hilarious adventures in Cornwall, address the drama and dynamics of Big Brother, and dive into the complexities of early childhood development. From sharing favourite spots and experiences in Cornwall to discussing the challenges faced by celebrities and the importance of balancing cognitive, physical, and emotional development in children, the hosts cover a wide range of engaging topics. They debunk common myths about child development, explore the impact of routines and behaviour management, and touch on the societal impact of negative news versus positive stories. With teasers of future episodes, including a big Halloween special, insightful debates, and hands-on advice for educators, this podcast offers an entertaining and educational experience for all listeners. 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.
Join Ben and Emily in this episode of the Little Minds, Big Ideas podcast as they navigate the rainy day atmosphere to discuss Ofsted's latest report on early years education and the crucial role of the internet in early childhood and across modern society as a whole. They examine the advantages and pitfalls of the internet, its influence on globalisation, and the pressing issues surrounding children's screen time and social media exposure. The hosts also touch on their personal internet habits, the effects of technology on family dynamics, and potential future regulations.Listen in for a thoughtful conversation that delves into the transformative power of the internet and its implications for early education.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.
In this episode of the Little Minds Big Ideas podcast with the Early Years Network, hosts Emily and Ben discuss the differences between rural and urban upbringings. They explore various aspects such as education, community, healthcare, independence, and more, while sharing their personal experiences. The episode also touches on recent government plans to expand nursery provisions and delves into ongoing social issues. Join Emily and Ben as they navigate through these contrasting childhood environments and their implications for future generations.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.
In this lively and candid episode of Little Minds, Big Ideas, Ben and Emily dive into the complexities of workplace culture. After a bit of tech trouble (they weren’t recording the first time around!), they tackle everything from the importance of feeling respected at work to the perks that really matter – like, who’s responsible for the office milk? Along the way, they discuss how company culture in early years settings is different, why leadership plays a key role, and how culture should evolve naturally rather than being forced. Plus, Emily teases her new podcast The Diary of an Early Years Educator, and the duo shares their thoughts on autonomy, communication, and what to look for in a healthy work environment. Tune in for some laughs, honest insights, and a whole lot of relatable moments. New episodes every Wednesday at 6am on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon.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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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