Welcome to June’s edition of Under 5 magazine! 

This month, inclusion and diversity are our driving theme! Over in baby and toddler groups, the Alliance’s Alison Heseltine looks at ways to make your group more inclusive for everyone. Meanwhile, the Alliance’s Richard Knight explains inclusion in the early years – what it means, how it’s implemented, upcoming changes, and CPD opportunities to enhance inclusive practice.

We also take a look at the ways ‘enabling environments’ enrich little ones’ learning and how to create them, and, in this month’s Book Nook, we celebrate Eid al-Adha.

Summer is about to go into full swing, so, in this month’s Family Corner, we’ve focused on how to prevent and treat bites and stings from creepy-crawlies to help you and your little ones enjoy the outdoors as much as possible! Over in Inspiration Corner, the Alliance’s Melanie Pilcher celebrates World Reef Day by looking at ways to bring in learning about the sea and reefs, as well as the creatures that inhabit them.

And as we reflect on the importance of protecting every child's right to the best possible start in life, it's important that we also consider what is happening beyond our borders – you may have noticed more recently the increased coverage of the horrors occurring in Gaza across news channels. We can and should use our voices to speak up for them; all children’s lives matter, no matter where they are in the world. If you're keen to know what you can do to help, please see our piece 'A Helping Hand' on page 22-23 of the November/December 2024 issue of Under 5.

Take care,

Jess Gibson, editor

Not only are we always looking for your good news and stories to share in My Under 5, but we’d also like to hear a little bit more about what it is that you want to see in the magazine each month. Send your good news, stories, questions or suggestions to editor.u5@eyalliance.org.uk to be featured.