Tops Day Nurseries is highlighting the vital role early years settings play in helping children develop the practical life skills they need for learning and wellbeing, amid growing concern that more children are starting school without basic independence.
Across its nurseries, Tops focuses on building strong foundations rather than simply “school readiness”, prioritising children’s confidence, independence, communication and emotional security.
Key elements of the approach include: potty teaching from the point children can sit independently, supported by reusable nappies and potty pants, which has contributed to an average reduction of around eight months in the age children become toilet trained, screen‑free early years environments rooted in real‑life, hands‑on experiences, and daily routines that embed independence, from putting on coats and managing belongings to washing hands and helping to tidy away.
Mealtimes are used as calm, sociable learning opportunities where children sit with adults, practise table manners, try a variety of nutritious foods and develop language and social skills through conversation. Practitioners place a strong emphasis on communication and language throughout the day, using rich vocabulary, stories, songs and sustained back‑and‑forth interactions to build attention, understanding and confidence.
“For us, this is not about pushing children into formal learning earlier. It is about giving them the confidence, independence and emotional security that allow learning to flourish naturally. When children feel capable in everyday life, everything else becomes more accessible.”
Diane Wycherley, Chief Operating Officer, Tops Day Nurseries
Tops works closely with parents, sharing practical guidance on supporting independence and routines at home, and identifying any additional needs early so they can be addressed together. The group believes that the answer to current national concerns lies in high‑quality early years environments, skilled practitioners and strong partnerships with families, protecting childhood while giving children the best possible start.
https://www.topsdaynurseries.co.uk/