Children were asked to draw or paint their carers and write a caption about why they liked them. Much creative talent and effort went into the artwork, but it is perhaps the children's words that we should take most to heart when considering what quality care should offer.
The importance of play to children, from nursery age to teenage, cannot be underestimated. Time and again, play was mentioned as the main reason children wanted to be with their carers. Often, the phrase 'she lets me play' appeared. It seems that children now feel special permission must be granted to stop their 'work'.
This theme is taken up in our Special Report by renowned early years consultant Jacqui Cousins (pages 10-11), looking at how the role of play in children's learning is still not properly understood by government and practitioners.
Next week, we'll be announcing the winners of our student essay competition.
