This conference by 4Children gives delegates an opportunity toinvestigate the ten-year national play strategy, highlighting the keyrequirements for local play strategies and providing insight intodeveloping and understanding outcomes. They will consider play withinthe Children's Plan and hear case studies from existing play providers.- London. Cost: from 155 plus VAT. Visit www.4children.org.uk orphone 0207 5226970
30 April - Implementing the Early Years Foundation Stage
This course run by Kathy Bigio, a leading authority on early yearsenvironments, aims to get participants up to date with all aspects andthemes of the EYFS, and introduce tools for change and strategies forimproving activities indoors and outside. - Newcastle. Cost: from 210 plus VAT. Visit www.osiriseducational.co.uk or phone 08081605160
12 May - From Bob the Builder to Batman
Participants on this Early Education course will consider how to planfor an imaginative learning environment for boys, making space for bothintroverts and extroverts, and supporting positive communication andinteractions. There will be a chance to discuss creative ways to managesuperhero play and popular culture within the EYFS, with examples ofgood practice and reflection on current writing and research.Practitioners will also reflect on appropriate limits for gun/weaponplay and how to formulate a policy to support both children and parents.- London. Cost: members 120, non-members 150. Visitwww.earlyeducation.org.uk
23 June - Dyslexia as part of Inclusion
Participants will be shown how technology can assist dyslexic learners,using text- to-speech and speech-to-text methods in the classroom, andhow dyslexic children can learn through play. - Leeds. Cost: 130.Visit www.bdadyslexia.org.uk or phone 0845 2519003.