A creative arts spin on science investigations

Cooking is such a fantastic experience to include in your early childhood programs. Mathematical language, science, health and creativity are just few of the benefits that spring to mind, not to mention the pure joy that cooking brings to little ones. Start early and they will develop a life long love of cooking - an essential life skill and definitely a lovely, theraputic activity that so many of us have a great passion for (kids are no exception!)

Fairies are the magical folk who whisper sweet stories in children's ears as they sleep and leave a trail of sparkle dust as they skip about the garden with trilling laughter and song in their step. I am so lucky to spend most days as a fairy when I visit the darling children whose faces light up with joy and delight when they spy my wand and wings! Here is a collection of some of my favourite fairy rhymes to share with your little ones....

Easter is a magical time of year for little ones. I clearly remember being around 5 or 6 years old and absolutely SURE I saw the Easter Bunny hopping down the street, human sized and wearing a waistcoat and bow tie! Here are some delightful little rhymes, songs and musical experiences to enchant and nurture those beautiful imaginations. Happy Hopping!

Being both an early childhood teacher and a children's performer means I am very passionate about providing children with the opportunity to engage in rich, meaningful music and movement experiences. I could go on for days about the importance of...

Many would say "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" is THE most loved picture book in the world, and I think I may have to agree! That marvellous munching Mr Caterpillar will be chewing his way through lots of wonderful activities and events with children all around the world...

 ~ STORYTELLING ~ REBECCA JANE FLANAGAN

I believe very strongly in the magic of books and illustrations, but I also believe just as strongly in the power of storytelling - a story from the mouth (and heart !) I almost always use props when storytelling (if not props, then the use of body actions, voices and facial expressions). The best ideas I have come across for storytelling are these:

★ A storytelling apron with lots of little t...