Welcome to Your Nursery Hub!
Welcome to your comprehensive Nursery Hub, expertly designed to support nursery practitioners and managers across the UK. We understand the dynamic environment of your setting and are dedicated to providing an extensive range of printable resources, innovative ideas, and up-to-date guidance to help you deliver outstanding early years provision.
From navigating EYFS requirements to finding engaging activities and managing your team effectively, our hub is packed with free and paid resources to make your day-to-day simpler and more inspiring.
Quick Links to Key Resources
Visit our New ‘Curriculum & Pedagogy’ Area - age-specific pathways for babies, toddlers, preschool & reception!
New Education Inspection Framework | What EYFS Settings Need to Know (November 2025)
Revised 2025 EYFS Statutory Framework for Group & School-Based Providers | What You Need to Know
EYFS Planning & Assessment Templates: Simplify your paperwork and track progress.
Seasonal Themes & Activities: Instantly download fun for every time of year.
Role-Play Area Kits: Transform your space with immersive play scenarios.
Dual Language Posters: Support communication and cultural diversity in your setting.
Special Dates Calendars for the year | Plus Activity Guides for August & Activity Guides for September: Plan ahead for awareness days and celebrations. Once on our Special Dates Calendar page which acts as an overview of the year, please click on our monthly calendars and individual special dates to find out more. Our awareness dates take you to a dedicated Activity Guide page for each date and all others link through to relevant resource pages where you can also scroll down to find more information about the event.
Nursery Setting Organisational Tools: Organise your setting with self-registration & emotional regulation displays, school readiness support, timetable and routine resources, picture communication cards and much more!
EYFS Framework Support Materials: From ‘Teaching and Learning Characteristics’ & ‘Overarching Principles’ materials to ‘Area of Learning Support’ examples, ‘Designated Safeguard Lead’ & ‘Safer Recruitment’ resources, we’ve got you covered!
‘Areas of Learning Hub’ Page: Browse our resources by ‘Area of Learning’ categories. Narrow your search to suit the needs of your individual children.
Outdoor Area Provision: All-year round inspirational ideas and resources for your setting.
Catering for a wide range of ages with wrap-around care? Explore our Themes & Activities perfect for engaging all ages.
Need an activity fast? Quickly grab a Colouring Activity to build those all important fine motor control skills, develop colour recognition and practice mindfulness.
NEW | From Our Blog: Latest Articles & Practical Guides: Includes Nursery School Regulatory Updates. Stay informed on the latest DfE and Ofsted changes.
Highlighted Must-haves for your Nursery Setting
Examples of how to support ‘Communication & Language’ learning and development for 3 and 4 year olds.
Extracted from Development Matters; non-statutory curriculum guidance for the early years foundation stage.
Includes colour and black and white versions.
Files contain public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.
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Examples of how to support ‘Mathematics’ learning and development for birth to 3 year olds.
Extracted from Development Matters; non-statutory curriculum guidance for the early years foundation stage.
Includes colour and black and white versions.
Files contain public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.
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Handy ‘Age 2 Progress Check’ forms. Two different versions to choose from within this pack. If you would like to adapt the forms, simply choose the editable docx file.
The EYFS Framework states there should be a progress check carried out at age 2.
More information can be found regarding the statutory requirements on the cover sheet attached within this document.
We hope you find this helpful!
Files contain public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.
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This observation sheet is intended to help practitioners concentrate on the most important aspects of what they are seeing during an observation and then develop steps forward for a child without being bogged down in extensive note-taking.
The sections of the sheet are designed for quick and concise notes that spark ideas for a child’s development.
We hope it helps!
Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.
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Handy planning and assessment tool. We have placed all of the Development Matters learning statements and ELGs into one document.
Includes 21 pages. The 7 areas of learning are each spread across 3 pages (birth to 3 / 3 & 4 year olds / children in reception).
Files contain public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.
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Development Matters incorporates ‘Observation Checkpoints’ for the Prime areas (Communication and Language, Physical Development & Personal, Social and Emotional Development). We have condensed these checkpoints into handy overview sheets. Plus we have included the ELGs from the EYFS Framework for each of these Prime areas.
We hope you find this helpful!
Files contain public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.
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Set of 7 A5 description cards; one for each area of learning. Useful to help guide planning within the EYFS Framework.
We hope you find this helpful!
Files contain public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.
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A4 poster for each of the ‘Overarching Principles’ within the EYFS Framework.
The EYFS Framework states “Four guiding principles should shape practice in early years settings. These are:
• Every child is a unique child, who is constantly learning and can be resilient, capable, confident and self-assured.
• Children learn to be strong and independent through positive relationships.
• Children learn and develop well in enabling environments with teaching and support from adults, who respond to their individual interests and needs and help them to build their learning over time. Children benefit from a strong partnership between practitioners and parents and/or carers.
• Importance of learning and development. Children develop and learn at different rates. The framework covers the education and care of all children in early years provision, including children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).”
We hope you find this helpful!
The above description and files below contain public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.
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Child record form which comprises 2 A4 pages. The first page covers ‘Contact Details’ and the second ‘Additional Information’. If you would like to adapt the forms, simply choose the editable docx file.
Updated to align with the Early Years Foundation Stage Statutory Framework, effective 1st September 2026.
We hope you find this helpful!
Files contain public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.
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This 'Child Absence Tracking Sheet' is designed to help settings effectively record and monitor children's attendance, particularly focusing on the new EYFS Statutory Framework requirements (effective from September 2025) regarding the follow-up of prolonged or unexplained absences.
Maintaining accurate records is crucial for safeguarding and demonstrating compliance.
Files contain public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.
DOWNLOAD EDITABLE (DOCX)
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This checklist is designed to assist group and school-based providers in aligning their recruitment practices with the updated EYFS Statutory Framework. It should be used in conjunction with the full EYFS Statutory Framework for Group and School-Based Providers (effective from 1st September 2026).
Please note: This checklist is a template for guidance only. Users must tailor it to their specific setting's policies and ensure full compliance with the EYFS Statutory Framework, Data Protection Act 2018, UK GDPR, and all current employment legislation before implementation.
Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.
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This checklist outlines the core responsibilities of the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) in early years settings, including childminders, nurseries, and school-based providers. It is designed to help you ensure that robust and effective safeguarding practices are consistently embedded in your provision. (Effective from 1st September 2026 – Reflecting New EYFS Requirements)
Please note: This checklist is a template for guidance only. Users must adapt it to their specific setting's safeguarding policy and ensure full compliance with the EYFS Statutory Framework, 'Keeping Children Safe in Education' (where applicable), Data Protection Act 2018, UK GDPR, and all current employment legislation before implementation.
Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.
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This template is designed to support all early years and educational providers in maintaining clear and up-to-date records of safeguarding training for staff, assistants, volunteers, and students, in line with statutory requirements such as the EYFS framework (effective from September 2026), Keeping Children Safe in Education, and local safeguarding partnership guidance.
Note: This template is intended as a guide and should be used alongside the most current version of the EYFS Statutory Framework, Keeping Children Safe in Education (where applicable), and guidance from your local safeguarding partnership.
Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.
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Choking Prevention in EYFS Settings Poster.
📌 Display this poster in:
- Food preparation areas
- Dining zones
- Staff break rooms
- Entry points for parents/carers
Important Disclaimer: This "Choking Prevention in EYFS Settings" poster provides general guidance and best practices. It is essential that all users also refer to and comply with the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). This poster does not substitute professional training, risk assessments, or your individual setting's health and safety policies and procedures, which must always be followed.
Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.
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These forms can be used to note the risks and benefits for activities that take place within a setting or on trips/days out.
As can be seen in the example on the first page, there is also a section to think about how the children might be encouraged to think and talk about the risks.
We hope you find this helpful!
Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.
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These checklists are to help with the day-to-day checks during preparation of a setting for the children’s welfare.
There are separate sheets for the indoor and outdoor environment.
These could be laminated for repeated use with a whiteboard pen.
p2-3 – colour versions
p4-5 – BW versions
We hope you find this helpful!
Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.
DOWNLOAD EDITABLE (DOCX)
DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (PDF)
DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (Zipped JPEGs)
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These sheets are intended for use by practitioners in pre-school EYFS settings (Nursery, Pre-School, Childminders). Both the short form (one page) and the longer variation (three pages) have spaces for adding information about a child’s individual attainment and personality that may be useful for their new setting. Please print and use the sheets you find most useful within this pack.
We hope you find this helpful!
Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.
DOWNLOAD EDITABLE (DOCX)
DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (PDF)
DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (Zipped JPEGs)
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This pack is intended for use by practitioners in pre-school EYFS settings (Nursery, Pre-School, Childminders) to compile information to be sent to a child’s new key worker when moving to a new setting.
Elements of this pack could also be used by settings who would like to send home a pack for children to fill in with their families before starting.
Pages included in the pack as follows:
(Please note that we have provided a selectin of pages for you to choose those appropriate for your child/setting needs. Print the ones which work for you and your child(ren) in order to create your own bespoke pack.)
EYFS handover sheets p2-5
• Forms to pass on attainment information to new setting.
‘This is me’ sheets (colour) p6-7
• Sheets for children to fill in independently or with adult help to tell new setting about themselves.
‘This is me’ sheets (BW) p8-9
• Sheets for children to fill in independently or with adult help to tell new setting about themselves
‘When I feel worried’ sheet (vertical) p10
• Sheets for children to complete with some support about their coping strategies.
‘When I feel angry’ sheet (vertical) p11
• Sheets for children to complete with some support about their coping strategies.
Picture frame outline (black) p12
• Rectangle frame for children to draw a self-portrait.
Picture frame outline (blue) p13
• Rectangle frame for children to draw a self-portrait.
Heart frame outline (pink) p14
• Heart-shaped frame for children to draw a self-portrait.
Heart frame outline (green) p15
• Heart-shaped frame for children to draw a self-portrait.
Balloon frame outline (red) p16
• Balloon-shaped frame for children to draw a self-portrait.
Balloon frame outline (yellow) p17
• Balloon-shaped frame for children to draw a self-portrait.
‘This is me’ booklet (colour) p18-26
• Booklet for children to fill in independently (or with help) to tell new setting about themselves.
‘This is me’ booklet (BW) p27-35
• Booklet for children to fill in independently (or with help) to tell new setting about themselves.
Picture/Handprint/Name sheets p36-40
• Sheets for children to draw themselves, add their handprint and attempt their name.
‘When I feel worried’ sheet (horizontal) p41
• Sheets for children to complete with some support about their coping strategies.
‘When I feel angry’ sheet (horizontal) p42
• Sheets for children to complete with some support about their coping strategies.
We hope you find this helpful!
Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.
DOWNLOAD EDITABLE (DOCX)
DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (PDF)
DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (Zipped JPEGs)
<<-BACK TO ‘EYFS FRAMEWORK’ MENU
These sheets are intended for use by practitioners in pre-school EYFS settings (Nursery, Pre-School, Childminders). Both the short form (one page) and the longer variation (three pages) have spaces for adding information about a child’s individual attainment and personality that may be useful for their Reception teacher.
We hope you find this helpful!
Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.
DOWNLOAD EDITABLE (DOCX)
DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (PDF)
DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (Zipped JPEGs)
<<-BACK TO ‘EYFS FRAMEWORK’ MENU
This pack is intended for use by practitioners in pre-school EYFS settings (Nursery, Pre-School, Childminders) to compile information to be sent to a child’s new teacher when starting school.
Elements of this pack could also be used by schools/reception teachers who would like to send home a pack for children to fill in with their families before starting with you.
Pages included in the pack as follows:
(Please note that we have provided a selectin of pages for you to choose those appropriate for your child/setting needs. Print the ones which work for you and your child(ren) in order to create your own bespoke pack.)
EYFS handover sheets p2-5
• Forms to pass on attainment information to new teacher.
‘This is me’ sheets (colour) p6-7
• Sheets for children to fill in independently or with adult help to tell new teacher about themselves.
‘This is me’ sheets (BW) p8-9
• Sheets for children to fill in independently or with adult help to tell new teacher about themselves
‘When I feel worried’ sheet (vertical) p10
• Sheets for children to complete with some support about their coping strategies.
‘When I feel angry’ sheet (vertical) p11
• Sheets for children to complete with some support about their coping strategies.
Picture frame outline (black) p12
• Rectangle frame for children to draw a self-portrait.
Picture frame outline (blue) p13
• Rectangle frame for children to draw a self-portrait.
Heart frame outline (pink) p14
• Heart-shaped frame for children to draw a self-portrait.
Heart frame outline (green) p15
• Heart-shaped frame for children to draw a self-portrait.
Balloon frame outline (red) p16
• Balloon-shaped frame for children to draw a self-portrait.
Balloon frame outline (yellow) p17
• Balloon-shaped frame for children to draw a self-portrait.
‘This is me’ booklet (colour) p18-26
• Booklet for children to fill in independently (or with help) to tell new teacher about themselves.
‘This is me’ booklet (BW) p27-35
• Booklet for children to fill in independently (or with help) to tell new teacher about themselves.
Picture/Handprint/Name sheets p36-40
• Sheets for children to draw themselves, add their handprint and attempt their name.
‘When I feel worried’ sheet (horizontal) p41
• Sheets for children to complete with some support about their coping strategies.
‘When I feel angry’ sheet (horizontal) p42
• Sheets for children to complete with some support about their coping strategies.
We hope you find this helpful!
Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.
DOWNLOAD EDITABLE (DOCX)
DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (PDF)
DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (Zipped JPEGs)
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This poster is intended to inform/remind parents and practitioners of some of the milestones that can be reached and celebrated with children as they prepare for their transition to school.
It is important to stress that this is not intended to be used as a tick sheet of absolute requirements. All children are different with distinct strengths and areas for development.
We hope you find this helpful!
Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.
DOWNLOAD EDITABLE (DOCX)
DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (PDF)
DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (Zipped JPEGs)
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These cards are intended to inform/remind parents and practitioners of some of the milestones that can be reached and celebrated with children as they prepare for their transition to school.
It is important to stress that they are not intended to be a collection of absolute requirements. All children are different with distinct strengths and areas for development.
We hope you find this helpful!
Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.
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Notes for practitioners and/or parents in supporting children during their transition to school.
We hope you find this helpful!
Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.
DOWNLOAD EDITABLE (DOCX)
DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (PDF)
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If you are not a member already, become a ‘Free Access’ member here. This will give you access to resources within the ‘Free Sample Resources’ sections at the top of most topic pages and ‘Special Dates Calendars’. Some whole topics are even free! Find out more about all of our membership options here. If you are already a member… thank-you!
Planning & Organisation: Your Essential Toolkit for Nursery Practitioners
Keeping your nursery setting running smoothly and compliantly is paramount. Our organisational resources are designed to help you streamline your paperwork, meet statutory requirements, and manage your daily routines with ease.
EYFS Planning & Assessment: Access a comprehensive range of printable templates for daily, weekly, and long-term planning, alongside observation sheets and observation & assessment tools.
Daily Routines & Timetables: Utilise our visual schedules and routine cards to help children understand the flow of their day, promoting independence and a calm environment.
Record Keeping Essentials: Find printable paperwork, from child record forms and child absence tracking sheets to age 2 progress check templates and changing EYFS settings handover packs, ensuring your documentation is organised and compliant for inspections.
Engaging Activity Ivitations & Learning Themes for Early Years
Spark joy and foster development with our diverse range of activity ideas and printable packs. We've got you covered for every season, celebration, and learning focus, ensuring children remain captivated and curious.
Popular Themes & Seasonal Fun
Seasonal Activities: Embrace the changing seasons with themed crafts, outdoor challenges, and learning activities tailored for Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter.
CLICK HERE to visit the ‘BEACH SCHOOL’ PAGE.
Printable ‘Beach’ teaching and learning resources include: scavenger hunts/checklists, mindfulness activity cards, cockle shell age poster, senses booklets and prompts, colouring pages, drawing/writing/mark making sheets, shell multimats, playdough/ loose part mats, art and craft activities, templates, pattern cards, natural loose part art prompts/posters, shapes, pre-writing, rockpool fact cards, symmetry, activity/movement challenges, display lettering, sand play and more!
CLICK HERE to visit ‘LIFE CYCLES’ PAGE.
Printable ‘Life Cycle’ teaching and learning resources include: cyclic puzzles, frog, chicken, caterpillar/butterfly, ant/bean life cycle display packs, posters, cut and stick activities, banners, cards, playdough mats and more!
CLICK HERE to visit ‘ON THE FARM’ PAGE.
Printable ‘Farm’ related teaching and learning resources include: word mats/cards, banners, farm animals and the young/babies counting, puzzles, I spy activities, follow the lines pencil control, animal body part posters, multimats, playdough mats, loose part activities, art and craft, fine motor control, phase 1, 2 and 3 letters and sounds, animal colouring, number slice puzzles, pictogram, size ordering, matching and memory games, fact cards, picture snap, farm trip pack and more!
Festivals & Celebrations: Discover resources for cultural celebrations like Diwali, Eid, Lunar/Chinese New Year, Christmas, and Easter, fostering inclusivity and global awareness in your setting.
Awareness Days & Special Dates: Utilise our comprehensive calendars and blog ideas to plan engaging activities around key awareness events, promoting understanding and discussion. Once on our Special Dates Calendar page which acts as an overview of the year, please click on our monthly calendars and individual special dates to find out more. Our awareness dates take you to a dedicated Activity Guide page for each date and all others link through to relevant resource pages where you can also scroll down to find more information about the event.
August & September Special Date Inspirational Activity Ideas for Nurseries: Read our new Educational & Informative Event Blog Posts. Browse awareness dates below using the arrows and click through to our dedicated blog post pages to read more.
Wednesday 26th August 2026: Woof woof! International Dog Day, celebrated annually on August 26th, is a heartwarming global day dedicated to celebrating dogs of all breeds, pure and mixed. It aims to raise awareness about…
Saturday 29th - Sunday 30th August 2026: Swoop into action! International Bat Night is an annual event that takes place at the end of August across more than 30 countries to raise awareness about bats and their conservation…
Wednesday 19th August 2026: Swing into action! International Orangutan Day, observed annually on August 19th, is a crucial global day dedicated to raising awareness about the critical threat facing orangutans and the…
Wednesday 12th August 2026: World Elephant Day, celebrated annually on August 12th, is a significant global event dedicated to raising awareness about the urgent plight of elephants worldwide. It was launched in 2012 by the…
Wednesday 12th - Thursday 13th August 2026: Get ready to look up! The Annual Perseid Meteor Shower, often considered one of the best meteor showers of the year, takes place every August, typically peaking around August 12th or…
Monday 10th August 2026: Roar! World Lion Day, celebrated annually on August 10th, is a powerful global initiative dedicated to celebrating the majestic lion and highlighting the urgent need for its conservation. It…
Saturday 8th August 2026: Meow! International Cat Day, celebrated annually on August 8th, is a purr-fect opportunity to celebrate our feline friends and learn all about them! It's a day dedicated to raising awareness about…
Tuesday 4th August 2026: International Owl Awareness Day, observed annually on August 4th, is a captivating opportunity to introduce young children to the fascinating world of owls! It's a day dedicated to highlighting…
August 2026: Ahoy, mateys! International Pirate Month, celebrated throughout August, is a fantastic, swashbuckling opportunity to inject adventure, imaginative play, and a whole heap of learning into…
Sunday 6th September 2026: Time to get cosy with a book! 📚📖 National Read a Book Day is an unofficial observance, primarily celebrated in the United States, annually on September 6th. Its simple yet powerful…
Monday 14th - Sunday 20th September 2026: Let's recycle! ♻️ Recycle Week is an annual event in the UK. Organised by WRAP (Waste & Resources Action…
Saturday 26th September 2026: Bonjour, hola, ciao! European Day of Languages is celebrated annually on September 26th. This initiative, organised by the Council of Europe with the European Union, aims to celebrate the rich…
Monday 21st - Sunday 27th September 2026: See clearly, learn happily! National Eye Health Week is a fantastic annual campaign in the UK. Promoted by Eye Health UK, its aim is to raise…
Monday 21st September 2026: Let's make peace! 🕊️ The U.N. International Day of Peace, often simply called Peace Day, is observed globally every year on September 21st. Established by the United Nations, this day is…
Friday 18th - Sunday 27th September 2026: Let's clean up our beaches! The Great British Beach Clean is an annual event organised by the Marine Conservation Society (MCS), in 2026 it is being held between 18th and 27th…
Saturday 19th September 2026: Ahoy, mateys! International Talk Like a Pirate Day is a fantastically fun, unofficial holiday celebrated worldwide every year on September 19th. This day was founded in 1995 by John Baur…
Wednesday 16th September 2026: Get up and get active! National Fitness Day is the UK's biggest annual celebration of physical activity. Organised by ukactive, in 2026 it takes place on September 16th. The day aims to highlight…
Sunday 13th September 2026: Think happy thoughts! Positive Thinking Day, observed informally on September 13th, is a wonderful opportunity to focus on the power of optimism, resilience, and a 'can-do' attitude. While…
Wednesday 9th September 2026: Hugs for Teddies! Teddy Bear Day is a charming and informal celebration that takes place on September 9th. It's a day to celebrate the beloved teddy bear, a timeless companion for children…
Wednesday 9th September 2026: Time to get puzzling! International Sudoku Day is a fantastic occasion observed annually on September 9th. This date was chosen because Sudoku is famously played on a 9x9 grid! While…
Tuesday 8th September 2026: Read all about it! International Literacy Day is celebrated every year on September 8th. Established by UNESCO (the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) in…
Monday 7th - Friday 11th September 2026: Reduce, reuse, recycle! Zero Waste Week is an annual, international campaign that takes place during the first full week of September. It encourages individuals, businesses, and communities to…
September 2026: Hooray for friends! Friendship Month is a wonderful, informal initiative often celebrated during September (though sometimes observed in August or February) to shine a spotlight on the…
September 2026: Crunch, munch! Snack-tember is a fantastic, informal awareness initiative that encourages a focus on healthy snacking throughout the month of September, particularly as children return to school…
Evergreen Themes & Activity Ideas: Key topics and inspirational resources for your setting whatever the season.
Nursery Setting Organisational Tools:
Organise your setting with self-registration & emotional regulation displays, quick notes home templates, timetable and routine resources, picture communication cards and much more! Access all of our Little Owls Resources organisational tools at this link or browse sub-topic buttons below (using the arrows):
Core Learning Areas & Developmental Support
Dive into our resources designed to support development across all EYFS Areas of Learning, ensuring a rich and balanced curriculum:
Communication & Language: Encourage vocabulary, listening skills, and confident expression with our story props, speaking prompts, and language-rich activities.
Physical Development: Develop fine and gross motor skills with our engaging activity cards, playdough mats, and movement games.
Alphabet & Initial Sounds: Introduce letters and their sounds with our colourful posters and interactive activity sheets, perfect for early phonics.
Phase 1 Phonics: Fun activities and games to build foundational phonological awareness.
Counting 0-10/20 & Subitising: Engaging printables to build foundational counting skills and quick recognition of quantities.
Shapes & Problem Solving: Explore 2D and 3D shapes and introduce early problem-solving scenarios through interactive activities.
Outdoor Learning & Creative Play
Make the most of your outdoor space and unleash creativity with our inspiring ideas and printables, designed to encourage exploration, physical activity, and imaginative play.
Pack of 19 A4 ‘How many can play’ area signs you may like to use in your outdoor area or garden.
Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.
DOWNLOAD EDITABLE (DOCX)
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Aquarium Role Play Pack includes:
banner
tickets - Name Writing
open/closed signs
opening times poster
‘Which animals can you find?’ tick sheet
colouring sheets
aquarium gold member cards
direction posters/arrows
exhibit posters (include feeding and experience times )
various mark making sheets
word cards
sea creature prop cards
aquarist name card templates
Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.
DOWNLOAD EDITABLE (DOCX)
DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (PDF)
DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (Zipped JPEGs)
Outdoor Area Ideas & Printables: Tips and resources to enhance your outdoor learning environment, encouraging discovery and sensory experiences.
Role-Play Area Packs: Our popular themed packs (e.g., vet's surgery, post office, fairy tale theatre, construction site, teddy bears’ picnic) provide everything you need to set up exciting imaginary worlds that promote social development and problem-solving.
Playdough & Loose Part Mats: Spark creativity and fine motor skills with open-ended play invitations using our printable mats.
Nursery Rhymes & Songs: Classic nursery rhyme resources and song props, perfect for singing, actions, and supporting early language and memory skills.
School Holiday Topics (Ideal to entertain a wide range of ages)
Open over the school holidays? Perhaps you have children of various ages…both Early Years and Primary?…Here are a few topics we have selected which may help to keep a wide range of ages entertained…
Nursery Insights, Advice & Updates
Stay informed, get expert advice, and find inspiration from our collection of articles and useful external resources, tailored specifically for nurseries.
NEW | From Our Blog: Latest Articles & Practical Guides
We regularly publish in-depth articles to support you with current best practices, regulatory changes, and fresh ideas.
The Department for Education has published updated versions of the Early Years Foundation Stage statutory framework, which will come into effect on 1 September 2026.
The revised frameworks introduce strengthened requirements relating primarily to safeguarding, children’s welfare, safer sleep, suitability checks and screen use. There are also several smaller clarifications intended to make existing expectations easier for providers to understand and apply…
A major overhaul of the national curriculum in England has been announced following the publication of the independent Curriculum and Assessment Review. For those working in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and Key Stage 1 (KS1), the changes signal a renewed focus on practical life skills, digital literacy, and enriching learning experiences…
The world of early years education is constantly evolving, and with it, the frameworks that guide and assess our invaluable work. Come November 2025, a significant shift will occur as the new Education Inspection Framework (EIF) comes into effect, bringing with it some crucial changes…
With the new 2025 EYFS Statutory Framework for group and school-based providers coming into effect on 1st September 2025, it's essential to understand the updates to ensure your practice remains compliant, effective…
The Education Secretary is calling on parents to lead by example and make reading a daily habit to help reverse the decline in reading for pleasure, to help give kids the best start in life as part of the…
As we head into summer, it’s especially important that children are prepared with these skills. This year, the Royal Life Saving Society UK's Drowning Prevention Week runs from 14 June to 21…
There are several ways that schools can make changes to keep children safe in hot weather, especially as children are more at risk of becoming ill with heat-related issues than adults…
Useful Organisations & External Resources
Find support and further information from leading organisations in the early years sector.
Ofsted: The official body for regulating and inspecting childcare providers in England, including nurseries.
Department for Education (DfE): Access official government guidance, policies, and frameworks related to early years and childcare, including the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).
National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA): A national charity and membership association supporting nurseries, early years settings, and their workforce across the UK. They offer comprehensive support, training, and resources.
Website: https://ndna.org.uk/
Early Years Alliance: The largest and most representative early years membership organisation in England. They provide information, advice, specialist publications, training schemes, and campaign to influence early years policy and practice.
Website: https://www.eyalliance.org.uk/
NSPCC Learning: Essential resources and training on safeguarding and child protection, with specific guidance and tools for early years settings.
Website: https://learning.nspcc.org.uk/
British Association for Early Childhood Education (Early Education): A national charity supporting early years practitioners with training, resources, and professional networks, campaigning for quality education for the youngest children.
Website: https://nationalcollege.com/institutions/british-association-for-early-childhood-education (Note: Their direct website is early-education.org.uk, but the National College link provides a good overview of their mission and support for institutions).
PACEY (Professional Association for Childcare and Early Years): While also supporting childminders, PACEY provides resources, training, and advice that can be beneficial to nursery practitioners.
Website: https://www.pacey.org.uk/
We're constantly adding new resources and articles to support you. Have a suggestion or can't find what you're looking for? [Contact Us!]
Nursery Inspiration Wall
Featured Time Relevant Themes and Engaging Resources for your nursery setting
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Click here to visit our ‘Special Dates Calendar’ page for an entire year of key EYFS & KS1 events, festivals & celebrations.
Sunday 30th August 2026: Splish, splash! National Beach Day, observed annually on August 30th, is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our beautiful coastlines, sandy shores, and the vibrant life found in and…