It has become clear over the past few years that children's first few years are important for their later development. Therefore it is essential to think about the environment that we create when working with the under-threes.
A good starting point is to spend some time considering what it is that babies and toddlers really need in their lives. The answer is, of course, not some fancy toys or beautiful furniture, but the attention of the adults who are with them. Babies and toddlers need the input of interested, skilful and caring adults.
It is the adults who provide language and stimulation and plan activities. Positive outcomes for this age group of children are significantly associated with the adults who are with them. This means that resourcing and buying equipment for children under three needs to be done with careful regard to the adults who will be spending significant periods of time working alongside the children.
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