Best Start in Life
At or federation, we believe every child deserves the best possible start in life.
The first five years of a child's life are crucial for their development, wellbeing and future success. During these early years, children develop the foundations for learning, communication, physical development, emotional wellbeing and relationships. Research shows that positive experiences in early childhood can have a lasting impact on health, happiness and achievement throughout life.
What is Best Start in Life?
Best Start in Life is a government initiative that brings together trusted advice, support and services for families from pregnancy through to starting school and beyond. It aims to make it easier for parents and carers to access information about child development, health, childcare, education and family support.
The Best Start in Life programme focuses on supporting families to:
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Promote healthy development from pregnancy onwards.
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Support speech, language and communication skills.
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Encourage positive physical and emotional wellbeing.
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Access high-quality early education and childcare.
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Develop school readiness skills.
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Access support quickly when additional help is needed.
School Readiness
Being ready for school is about much more than knowing letters and numbers. Children are best prepared for school when they can:
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Communicate their needs and feelings.
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Listen and follow simple instructions.
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Manage personal care such as toileting and handwashing.
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Play and interact positively with others.
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Explore, investigate and learn through play.
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Develop independence and confidence.
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Regulate their emotions with support from caring adults.
We work closely with families to support every child's journey towards school readiness.
Support for Families
Families may benefit from a range of services and support during their child's early years. These include:
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Family Hubs
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Health Visiting Services
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School Nursing Services
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Early Help Services
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SEND Support Services
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Parenting Programmes
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Speech and Language Support
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Emotional Health and Wellbeing Services
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Community and Family Support Services
Further information about these services can be found on our Family Support Services Directory.
Weekly Advice and Support
Parents and carers can sign up to receive free weekly emails through the Best Start in Life website. The emails provide personalised advice, activities and information tailored to your stage of pregnancy or your child's age and development.
Topics include:
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Pregnancy and newborn care
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Feeding and nutrition
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Sleep and routines
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Communication and language development
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Play and learning activities
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Health and wellbeing
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Preparing for nursery and school
Useful Resources
The Best Start in Life website provides trusted information on:
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Pregnancy and becoming a parent
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Child development from birth to age five
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Childcare and funded childcare entitlements
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Health and wellbeing
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Oral health and healthy habits
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Starting nursery and school
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Family Hubs and local support services.
Further Information
For trusted advice and support, visit:
If you would like advice about your child's development or would like to discuss any concerns, please speak to your child's key person, class teacher, SENDCo or a member of our safeguarding team.