Libraries Week takes place between the 8th and 13th October celebrating the nation’s much-loved libraries. This year the focus is upon wellbeing, with libraries across the country showcasing how they bring communities together, combat loneliness, provide a space for reading and creativity and support people with their mental health. The technological advancements in

“Food is fuel for our bodies. So is conversation for our brains.” The National Literacy Trust (2013) believes that mealtime chatter boosts children’s communication skills and confidence. A study with school children in 2012 concluded that children whose families chat at mealtimes feel more confident to speak in front of

By Jo Pandollfi When I had my children at the beginning of the 1990’s the recommended length of time before weaning our babies was three months.  However, parents would proudly compare notes and boast if their child was taking solids earlier than this and it was not unusual for babies

We’ve all seen videos of people giving a lemon to a baby to suck on, but have you ever seen anyone try giving a lemon to a toddler? Babies have very adventurous taste buds but as they grow into their toddler’s years they usually become less agreeable at meal times.

The next Abacus Ark Award winner that we will be introducing is Hanouf Gotangogan, a key teacher at our Maida Vale Nursery. Hanouf won an award for the Partnership category and was voted for by her colleagues at Maida Vale for her role as a ‘Community Officer’.  Winners of this

Very often in the class I read or tell stories to the children. I improvise using any props I have near me and play games with words. Words have a magnificent power on children as they calm them down, help them concentrate, prompt them to find answers, deal with their fears

Any time from Breakfast to Bedtime is the right time to share a story. It’s never too early to start the wonderful time spent snuggling together with a book. From the moment babies can hear sounds, the voices of their families and carers become familiar and comforting. Gentle lullabies soothe

The next Abacus Ark Award winner we would like to introduce is Consolacion Marin Martinez – also known as Miss Consol.  Miss Consol joined us at our Wandsworth nursery in July 2017 and is a key teacher in our preschool classroom. At the Abacus Ark Awards, Miss Consol’s colleagues voted

The first Abacus Ark Award winner we would like to introduce is Racheal Phillips. Racheal joined us at our Clapham nursery in June 2017 and in her short time with us she has undoubtedly made an impact on her colleagues, gaining the most votes in two categories. Rachel won awards

At Abacus Ark, it is important for us to recognise the achievements of everyone, celebrating the milestones of our children and the accomplishments of our Teaching team. 2017 saw a year of amazing growth and achievements for everyone at Abacus Ark. Our annual Abacus Ark Awards Party offers a chance for us