Dictionaries can be a great way for your child to find out new words and improve their vocabulary – but not just any will do. For your child to get the most out of a dictionary, it has to include words they are likely to hear and use at home and school. It also needs … Read more
Words are powerful things. They are the keys we use to unlock meaning, allowing us to understand new information and ideas. They are the tools we use to construct and share our own thoughts, giving us a voice. A broad, rich vocabulary – the words we recognise and know how to use – allows a … Read more
Sharing a book at bedtime helps develop your child’s vocabulary, gets them used to the idea of regular reading, and gives you both a great opportunity to bond. Children’s author Cerrie Burnell gives us her top tips for getting the most out of bedtime reading. We all know what it’s like to get home after … Read more
A love of books is one of the greatest gifts you can give your child. Studies have shown that children who read for pleasure are more likely to do well at school – and the earlier you start, the better. But how do you choose from the huge number of wonderful books available? Children’s librarian … Read more
Writing stories is the perfect way for your child to unleash their inner artist. Creating an entirely new world with only a pen, some paper, and a whole heap of imagination can be hugely exciting and rewarding, and also makes for fun literacy practice – but it can be hard to know where to start. … Read more
The evenings are growing darker and the air is becoming colder and crisper. Winter is on its way. What better way to take shelter from the weather than curled up with a good book? When I was a primary teacher, carving out some time every day to read a book aloud was crucial. Aside from … Read more
Christmas is coming, and everyone’s favourite witch and her furry feline friend are ready to celebrate! We’ve assembled some of Winnie and Wilbur’s finest festive treats to get you and your child excited for the holidays. So settle down in front of the fire, grab a hot chocolate, and join the pair on their madcap … Read more
If I were in charge of education, reading for pleasure would be at the heart of the curriculum. All the evidence suggests that the benefits are huge and wide-ranging, both educationally and personally. Plus, it’s fun, and I do think that school should be fun. Sadly, the evidence also suggests that boys read for pleasure … Read more
If your child finds it difficult to sleep independently, you’ll know just how detrimental missing a good night’s sleep can be for your child (not to mention for you!). No-one wants their child to be tired and grumpy during the day, but it is hard to know how to encourage positive sleeping habits. Fortunately, help … Read more
If your child was born between 1 September 2014 and 31 August 2015, you will need to apply for a place at primary school by the middle of January 2019. If this applies to you, you might find yourself asking two questions: 1. Wow, primary school already, where did the time go? 2. Now, where … Read more