Working in the early years is busy, funny, messy and exhausting. Join host Shána, some of the Twinkl EYFS team, special guest speakers and other early years practitioners as they talk honestly about their experiences. Whether you're listening for CPD, on your commute or to help you relax... Twinkl EYFS will share everything you need to know about all things early years!Want to get involved or share your thoughts? Get in touch on social media!
Faceboo (https://www.facebook.com/twinkleyschools)k (https://www.facebook.com/TwinklEYFS) - Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/twinkleyschools/) - TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@twinkleyschools)- YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLuwr7fChk2D7Bv_ai2qkpSEzpjsXk_D4D) - Twitter (https://x.com/twinkleyschools) - LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/twinkl-talks-eyfs/) - Pinterest (https://www.pinterest.co.uk/twinkleyfs/)
What is the Montessori approach, and how can its principles support children's learning and development in the Early Years?
In this episode of the Twinkl Talks EYFS Podcast, we're joined by Lucy Gibson, Montessori consultant, radio host and founder of Positively Simple, to explore the philosophy behind Montessori education and what it means for young children and Early Years practitioners.
Together, we take a closer look at the Montessori approach, exploring its focus on independence, child-led learning and creating environments that encourage children to explore, discover and develop at their own pace.
We also consider how Montessori principles can complement everyday Early Years practice, offering a different perspective on supporting children's curiosity, confidence and natural desire to learn.
Whether you're already familiar with Montessori education or simply curious to learn more, this episode offers an opportunity to reflect on different approaches to learning and how we can support children to become confident, independent learners.
🎧 Join us as we explore the Montessori philosophy and what it could mean for your Early Years practice.
In this episode, we explore:
Understanding the Montessori approach and its underlying philosophy
The importance of independence and child-led learning
Creating environments that encourage exploration and discovery
Supporting children's confidence, curiosity and development
How Montessori principles can inspire everyday Early Years practice
Find out more about Lucy Gibson:
Discover more about Lucy's work, Positively Simple and her approach to Montessori education using the links below.
🌐 Positively Simple: Positively Simple - Living, Learning, Leading | Lucy Gibson (http://positivelysimple.org/)
🖥️ Linktree: positivelysimple.org Official: Instagram | Linktree (https://linktr.ee/positivelysimple.org)
📱 Instagram: Lucy Gibson | Positively Simple - living learning leading (@positivelysimple.uk) • Instagram profile (https://www.instagram.com/positivelysimple.uk)
💻 LinkedlIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/positivelysimple/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/positivelysimple/)
🎙️ Radio show and further information: Fiesta FM CIC (https://fiestafm.co.uk/positively-simple-show)
Explore related Twinkl resources:
Discover more resources to support child-led learning, independence and meaningful learning experiences in the Early Years.
👉 https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/u32to (https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/u32to)
👉 https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/103fbi (https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/103fbi)
👉 https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/mpd43 (https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/mpd43)
19 Oct 2026
Episode 132: Protecting Play: Understanding Reception in a Changing System
What role do Reception classes play in children's early education, and how can we ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive as they begin their school journey?
In this episode of the Twinkl Talks EYFS Podcast, Michelle is joined by Professor Eva Lloyd, Emeritus Professor of Early Childhood at the University of East London, to explore Reception classes in the UK and their place within the wider Early Years education system.
With extensive experience in Early Years research and policy, Professor Lloyd has contributed to national and international conversations around childcare provision, funding, quality, accessibility and the role of government in supporting children and families.
Together, we explore the role of Reception in children's learning and development, considering how early education policies, expectations and approaches can shape children's experiences during this important stage of their education.
We also reflect on the wider Early Years landscape and the importance of creating high-quality, inclusive learning environments that recognise children's individual needs and support positive experiences as they move into school.
Whether you're a Reception teacher, Early Years practitioner or school leader, this episode offers an opportunity to reflect on the role of Reception classes and the wider conversations shaping the future of Early Years education.
🎧 Join us for a thought-provoking discussion about Reception classes, Early Years provision and supporting children's learning and development.
In this episode, we explore:
The role of Reception classes within the Early Years education system
The importance of high-quality Early Years provision
Supporting children's learning, development and transition into school
The influence of education policy on Reception provision
Creating inclusive environments that meet children's individual needs
Reflecting on the future of Reception and Early Years education
Find out more about Professor Eva Lloyd:
Explore Professor Eva Lloyd's research, publications and contributions to Early Years policy using the links below.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/eva-lloyd-9021a623/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/eva-lloyd-9021a623/)
Eva Lloyd OBE (@EvaLloyd50) on X (https://x.com/EvaLloyd50)
The International Centre for the Study of the Mixed Economy of Childcare (ICMEC) (https://www.uel.ac.uk/our-research/research-school-education-communities/international-centre-study-mixed-economy-childcare-icmec)
https://theconversation.com/does-increased-childcare-funding-help-mothers-into-work-291099 (https://theconversation.com/does-increased-childcare-funding-help-mothers-into-work-291099)
Explore related Twinkl resources:
Discover more resources to support Reception teaching, child development and high-quality Early Years provision.
👉 https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/leccy (https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/leccy)
👉 https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/11ns8z (https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/11ns8z)
👉 https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/h4fvz (https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/h4fvz)
12 Oct 2026
Episode 131: Wellbeing in the Digital Age
In this episode of Twinkl Talks EYFS, we’re exploring the world of digital wellbeing in the early years with Samantha Dholakia.
Technology is a big part of children’s lives, but what does healthy digital wellbeing look like for young children? We explore the opportunities technology can bring to children’s learning and wellbeing, as well as practical ways practitioners can introduce healthy digital habits from the early years.
Samantha also shares how digital tools can help strengthen connections between home and early years settings, and offers one key message for practitioners looking to support children’s digital wellbeing.
🎧 Tune in for practical ideas, thoughtful insights and guidance to help children develop a healthy relationship with technology from the very beginning.
Find out more about Samantha Dholakia:
SPD Homepage - The Behaviour Bank (https://thebehaviourbank.com/)
https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-dholakia-142ab57a/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-dholakia-142ab57a/)
Sam Dholakia | Inclusion | Behaviour Consultant and Trainer (@spdtrainingandconsultancy) • Instagram profile (https://www.instagram.com/spdtrainingandconsultancy/)
SPD Tuition and Coaching (@SpdCoaching) on X (https://x.com/SpdCoaching)
SPD Training and Consultancy (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDH_aXC4IA7NTb_yH6GKgqw)
The Behaviour Pod (https://open.spotify.com/show/3wh9EvvtqtdWkTfUfgLQnk?dlsi=d60681ef6d5e44c3&nd=1&si=a91b7e6abdc542b7)
Related resources:
https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/943op (https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/943op)
https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/eig2j (https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/eig2j)
https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1jq0zm (https://www.twinkl.co.uk/l/1jq0zm)
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
920,417
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Spotify
4.9 / 5
10 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 69 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
71
Social presence
0
YouTube
86
Engagement
81
Contact Twinkl Talks: EYFS
Guest appearances
Books guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
