Clebran: Early Years in Focus

This week brought two major reports on children in Wales. The State of Child Health: Wales report, published today by the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, as well as earlier this week Wales' PISA results were released. Both reports identify some concerning trends. In this emergency episode of Clebran: Early Years in Focus, Early Years Wales asks what's shaping both trends, and how our sector and society can come together to build an environment that truly supports children from all backgrounds with their physical and cognitive developmental needs. You can read the RCPCH's report here: State of Child Health: about our report | RCPCH Welsh PISA results 2026 information (BBC News Wales): Wales' Pisa test results fall further behind rest of UK - BBC News Find out more about our Movement Champion Campaign: Movement Champion | Early Years Wales

In the first episode of the Clebran: Early Years in focus, hosted by Early Years Wales, Dave and Leo are joined by Professor Diane Craft, who talks to us about the vital role that movement has in the development of young children. Diane shares her insights, research, and examples of how and why movement is so important. You can find out more about Diane and her work below: Website here: https://activeplaybooks.com/ Diane’s email: Diane.Craft@cortland.edu If you have any questions for us, we’d love to hear from you: Email: info@earlyyears.wales You can also find out more about our work by visiting: Website: https://www.earlyyears.wales/en

We know how challenging it can be when it comes to funding and resources for accessible, sustainable play, so we were delighted when childhood development expert, and Kirstine Beeley, child development expert agreed to share her top tips for settings! From accessible donation ideas, parent & carer involvement, to multi use house hold items, charity shop bargains and more….we’ve even got LoveSpoons in there! And for the outdoors, we’re talking tyres, guttering and crates, plus nature’s bounty – all available for free! This is a wonderful conversation, packed with helpful, practical, accessible ideas that are sure to boost your resources and play! We have some fabulous masterclasses available, hosted by Kirstine: Terrific Twos to Fantastic Fours: A Complete guide to Early Childhood Development. You can find out more here: Training Planner | Early Years Wales You can visit Kirstines Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/playingtolearnkirstinebeeley?locale=en_GB

Welcome to Clebran: Early Years in Focus, a podcast delivered to you by Early Years Wales. This podcast is for any individual who is interested in early years. Whether you are a practitioner who wants to delve deeper into theories behind child development, a parent looking for helpful tips and tricks to support their child, or an individual interested in pursuing a career in the early years, this podcast is for you. Follow us to keep up to date with the latest episodes!