Opinion: Editor's View - Stay prepared to face the challenges of the year ahead with Nursery World
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
So, 2009 has arrived, and with it comes the realisation that it could be a very tough year all round.
There will be no lavish pots of extra funding pouring into the early years sector; childcare places could be hard to fill as parents lose jobs, and consequently nursery finances and staff jobs will be under pressure, too.
However, the demand for childcare may dip, but probably not beyond a certain level. And the secure place of early years education and childcare in Government policy and legislation gives some protection as well. Sectors such as construction will be hit far harder.
Even if consolidation is far more of a prospect than rapid expansion, there are plenty of challenges in the coming 12 months, including bedding in the Early Years Foundation Stage, and shining under the new early years inspection system.
As always, Nursery World has plenty to keep you going in this week's magazine. There are features on attachment, child-initiated learning and supporting boys' learning, along with simple-to-source resources that are ideal for working with babies.
And our four-page pull-out on growing your own vegetables will not only help with children's health, nutrition and learning - you could save lots of money on shop-bought food as well!
We've got a busy year ahead, with plenty of extra events planned for the early years community. First up is the Nursery World Show 2009 on 23 and 24 January (www.nurseryworldshow.com). Our conference, Early Years Foundation Stage: Six Months On, will take place towards the end of March. And look out for more details soon on the Nursery World Awards 2009.
