Annette Rawstrone

Children have spent the start of this year immersed in ballet at one setting, reports Annette Rawstrone Both girls and boys enthusiastically participated in the ballet exploration. An informal yoga session at the start of term turned into a ballet performance led by twin sisters, with children joining in and taking it in turns to perform for everyone.

Getting out of your home on time in the morning will sometimes be a challenge, but there are things you can do to make it easier for you and your child. By Annette Rawstrone Having a consistent routine will support time-keeping. Before becoming a parent, there was only yourself to think about and you could simply throw some clothes on, grab your keys and walk out of the door.

At one award-winning setting, mealtimes are prioritised to ensure children receive the nutrition they need, as well as supporting independence. By Annette Rawstrone Children learn independence and gain confidence at the setting's mealtimes ‘We know how important nutrition is – a healthy, nourishing diet is the foundation of a happy, thriving child,’ says Sara Thakrar, director of Blossom Tree Montessori.