Explore every episode of the podcast Let's Talk Early Years

Induction is one of the most overlooked policies in early learning.

It isn’t a folder handed to a new team member on their first day. It’s the foundation of your culture, your expectations, and the way quality practice is sustained long after onboarding ends.

In this episode, we explore why great induction is an ongoing process, how it shapes confident educators, and what nursery leaders can do to build stronger, more consistent teams.

🎧 Listen now on YouTube, Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

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You spent weeks updating the policies.The inspector is happy.The file is complete.Now what?In this episode we’re talking about the gap between having a policy and actually using it. What that looks like in real nursery settings and why policy review shouldn’t be a once-a-year exercise.A conversation for nursery leaders, teachers and anyone responsible for setting the standard.

The new FS1 age eligibility changes in the UAE are raising big questions across the early years sector.In this episode, Melonie Karriem chats with Louise Hurley from Parent Prosper coaching & explores what these changes mean in practice — for educators, nursery managers, school leaders and concerned parents.With over three decades in early childhood education, Melonie addresses a crucial distinction:Eligibility is administrative.Readiness is developmental.Together with Louise, a former educator turned parenting coach - she unpacks the viral message “Earlier does not mean better” and examines:•⁠ ⁠What happens behaviourally when children enter school too soon•⁠ ⁠Why the three Prime Areas of the EYFS are the true predictors of later success•⁠ ⁠How nursery settings play a critical role in emotional regulation and resilience•⁠ ⁠Practical strategies for early years leaders preparing for the coming academic year•⁠ ⁠How struggling nurseries can respond proactively and ethicallyThis episode is for professionals who refuse to rush childhood — and for parents who want to make informed, confident decisions.Childhood is not a race. Foundations matter.

In this episode of Let’s Talk Early Years, I’m joined again by The HR Sisters, Desma and Elrona D’Souza, for Part 2 of our conversation on the vital role HR plays in building thriving early years teams. This time, we dive deeper into CPD, staff well-being, and practical HR strategies that help nurseries grow, retain, and empower their teams. Because when your staff feel supported, valued, and equipped to succeed, children benefit too.Together, we explore:✅ Why CPD is more than training—it’s about investing in people’s growth✅ How well-being initiatives boost retention and create motivated teams✅ HR practices that nurture loyalty, trust, and long-term success✅ The link between strong HR foundations and high-quality care for childrenDesma and Elrona bring their wealth of expertise and heartfelt reflections, offering practical tools that nursery owners, leaders, and educators can apply immediately.If you’re passionate about creating environments where educators thrive, teams stay strong, and children flourish, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.🎧 Tune in, learn, and let’s keep building a brighter future for early years education—together.

In this insightful episode of Let’s Talk Early Years, I’m joined once again by The HR Sisters, Desma and Elrona D’Souza, to explore why HR is more than policies and procedures, it’s the roots that allow people, culture, and nurseries to flourish. 🌱When onboarding and hiring are done with intention, employees don’t just work, they feel connected, valued, and empowered. And when teams thrive, children thrive.Together, we discuss:✅ Why onboarding is about creating belonging, not just ticking boxes✅ How HR foundations shape a culture you can feel the moment you walk in✅ The importance of first impressions in building trust and retention✅ How to balance compliance with care and culture✅ Why strong HR roots allow teams to flourish like a thriving gardenDesma and Elrona share practical insights and heartfelt reflections on how putting people before paperwork transforms early years settings into places where staff and children can grow and shine.This episode is essential listening for nursery owners, managers, and educators who want to create a workplace culture that attracts, retains, and inspires.🎧 Tune in and discover how the right HR practices can nurture not just staff wellbeing, but the entire nursery community.

In this thoughtful episode of Let’s Talk Early Years, I sit down with Hollie Mayes to explore one of the most powerful, yet often overlooked, influences in early childhood learning: the environment.What if the space itself could teach?We dive into the idea of the environment as the third teacher, not just a backdrop, but a partner in every child’s learning journey.Together, we explore:✅ Why clutter-free, intentional spaces matter more than ever✅ How to design with a child’s perspective in mind✅ The power of calm aesthetics in reducing overwhelm and boosting engagement✅ How small design changes can inspire big developmental leaps✅ What it means to be a reflective practitioner through spaceHollie shares practical tips and heartfelt reflections on how creating “invitations to play” can replace screen time, reduce overstimulation, and give children (and parents!) more moments of peace and discovery.Whether you’re a parent, practitioner, or leader, this episode will leave you inspired to rethink how your learning environments can speak softly, intentionally, and powerfully.

In this inspiring episode of Let’s Talk Early Years, I am joined by Julie Keyes to explore how coaching is more than just a skill, it’s a culture shift that can transform early years settings.When we move away from ticking boxes and toward reflective conversations, we unlock something powerful: trust, growth, and meaningful change.Together,

In this episode of Let’s Talk Early Years, I sit down with Stephanie Martin to unpack the art of handling tough conversations in early years settings.Whether it’s giving feedback, resolving conflict, or leading with empathy under pressure, how we communicate in challenging moments can either build trust or break it.

In this insightful episode of Let’s Talk Early Years, we sit down with Orchids Roy to explore why customer service isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s a core leadership skill in early childhood settings.From the moment a parent walks through the door, impressions are formed, trust is built (or broken), and your setting’s values are communicated without saying a word.

In this exciting kickoff to Season 3 of Let’s Talk Early Years, we’re joined by personal branding expert Kelly Lundberg to explore why personal branding matters for early years educators — and how to harness it to grow your impact and career.

Whether you’re a teacher, leader, or advocate in the early childhood space, you are the brand. But how do you elevate your voice without stepping on toes? How do you show up with clarity, confidence, and purpose in a profession that often prioritizes the collective over the individual?

In this powerful episode of Let’s Talk Early Years, we’re joined by Louise Dawson to explore how early years settings can embrace neurodiversity and truly support all children.

What does inclusion look like in action—not just on paper? How can we move beyond tokenistic approaches and create environments where neurodivergent children genuinely thrive?

In Episode 9 of Let’s Talk Early Years, we tackle one of the most debated topics in early childhood education—school readiness. What does it really mean for a child to be "ready" for school? And are we focusing on the right skills? Joining us is Letitia Petrie, an experienced early childhood expert, to debunk common myths and shed light on what truly matters when preparing young children for school.

In Episode 8 of Let’s Talk Early Years, we dive into a crucial conversation about the effects of screen time on young children’s development with Nicole Plumridge, an experienced early childhood expert. As digital media becomes more embedded in children's daily lives, parents and educators are left wondering: How much screen time is too much? What are the signs of overuse? How can we create a healthy balance?

Every child experiences the world in a unique way, and for some, sensory processing can be a challenge. How can occupational therapy help children develop essential life skills and navigate their environment with confidence?In this insightful episode of Let’s Talk Early Years, we welcome Laura Reid, an experienced occupational therapist, to explore how sensory development impacts learning, behavior, and overall well-being.

Every child’s mind is filled with curiosity, potential, and the ability to shape the future. But how can we nurture their cognitive and emotional growth during the critical early years? In this inspiring episode of Let’s Talk Early Years, our guest Gaurav Saxena explores what makes a young mind truly beautiful. From fostering creativity to building emotional intelligence, we dive into the essential elements that help children thrive.

In this insightful episode, we go beyond the surface of inclusion and explore what it truly means in early years education. Our guest, May Zalat, an expert in inclusive education, shares her invaluable perspective on creating learning environments that embrace every child—beyond just policies and checkboxes.

Teaching is one of the most rewarding professions, but it’s also demanding. Educators often feel the pressure to be everything—mentor, caregiver, problem-solver, and role model—while balancing their own well-being. In this powerful episode, we sit down with Mirna Bolmanac, Nazia Mirza, and Magda Snowden to discuss why teachers don’t have to be superheroes to make a difference.

In Episode 3 of Season 2, early years expert Sari Saliba explores the evolving landscape of early education.

Dive into a conversation that unpacks the latest trends—from innovative curriculum and pedagogy to the integration of technology and the enduring power of play-based learning. Sari shares practical strategies and insights for educators and nursery leaders to adapt, innovate, and thrive in today’s dynamic environment.

In this episode, early years expert Lara Hudson shares invaluable insights into Nursery School Quality Assurance and Inspection Preparation. From understanding key inspection criteria to fostering a culture of continuous improvement, Lara provides practical strategies to help educators and nursery leaders maintain high standards of care and education.

Discover the Wonders of Waldorf Education with early years expert Jade Khoury! In this episode, Jade delves into the principles of this holistic educational approach, which nurtures creativity, imagination, and a love for learning through rhythm, artistic expression, and hands-on experiences. We explore practical insights, examples, and tips for incorporating the Waldorf philosophy into classrooms and home environments. Whether you're an educator, parent, or simply curious about innovative approaches to early childhood education, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable ideas!

Join Lisa Sherrington Boyd and me as we dive into The Curiosity Approach and uncover how hands-on, child-led learning fosters creativity, exploration, and personal growth. In this insightful conversation, we explore how encouraging curiosity in children can ignite their imagination and shape their development in meaningful ways. ✨

In The Inspire Philosophy with Agathe Jameson, we dive into a unique and progressive approach to early childhood learning that integrates seamlessly with the British Curriculum. Agathe shares insights into innovative teaching strategies that encourage creativity, critical thinking, and emotional growth, all while keeping young learners engaged and inspired.Whether you’re an educator, parent, or simply passionate about early childhood development, this conversation is packed with valuable perspectives on nurturing the potential of every child. Don’t miss this must-watch episode that could transform your view on education!

Forest Schools with Autumn O’Brien as she explores the transformative power of nature-based learning. In this video, Autumn, an experienced Forest School educator, shares how outdoor classrooms can ignite curiosity, creativity, and confidence in children. Discover the benefits of hands-on activities in natural settings—from fostering problem-solving skills to developing resilience.

Understanding Behaviour with Agnes Jeanbart from BehaviourCore

Discovering the magic of Montessori with Siog Moore and Seetha Sagar from the Teachwise Vocational institute. Their enthusiasm and expertise related to the Montessori method is undeniable!

An educator and early years leader, Lisa is the UAE’s first accredited Froebelian tutor. She shares her passion and enthusiasm for incorporating this approach into the modern early years setting.

An academic, an entrepreneur and educator: Stephanie brings a dynamic perspective to understanding some key factors which affect communication within our teams. Be inspired by her articulate and thoughtful approach to listening for understanding and get to know your own listening and speaking style.

From the moment that potential parents engage with your brand, they have already created an impression of your nursery. In this episode we understand what quality assurance might look like in a nursery school of excellence.

With the understanding that team member has a role to play, this episode shares the ‘ why’ behind our cohesive efforts.

Wellbeing for early years practitioners and principals - with Coach Mirna Balmanac from One way to harmony We give so much and expect so little in return. In this episode we discover the vital role that our holistic health plays in the provision of high quality early years care and education.

There are so many moving parts on the first day of nursery school. So many emotions and so many expectations of how the day should look. The great news is that a smooth start is possible.

Join @thelifestagelab to empower yourself for an amazing start to the school year.

Are you passionate about shaping the future of our youngest learners? Whether you’re an educator, parent, or caregiver, this podcast is your go-to resource for all things early childhood education. In each episode of “Let’s Talk Early Years,” we dive into the latest research, share innovative practices, and discuss real-world experiences with leading experts in the field. From developmental milestones to creative teaching strategies, we explore the topics that matter most in the world of early years education.