At Karen’s Nursery, we know how important childhood education is for your little ones’ development. It shapes their knowledge, skills, and attitudes as they grow. Now, there are many different educational approaches out there, each with its own philosophy and way of doing things. One approach that’s been gaining a lot of popularity is the…
Developing fine motor skills is an integral part of the early years of child development and this is why at Keren’s Nursery, we see this as a priority for all young children. These skills refer to the movement of hands, fingers, eyes, lips and tongue which all have an impact on a child’s everyday activities.…
Over recent years there has been a huge shift in the number of nurseries and schools offering yoga to their students both as part of the curriculum and as an after-school activity. Here at Keren’s Nursery, we are proud to offer Yoga to all children. Yoga has been seen to improve both physical and mental…
A day nursery is a type of childcare facility that offers care, education, and socialisation opportunities for young children, usually between the ages of six weeks and five years old. Day nurseries, such as Keren’s Nursery, are designed to provide a safe and nurturing environment for children while their parents or guardians are at work…
Nursery rhymes have been an integral part of childhood for generations, and are short, catchy songs and rhymes that are easy for children to learn and remember. Nursery rhymes are not only entertainment and music for your little one but also helps them in learning language, social skills, and moral values. Over the years, many…
Art is a powerful tool for self-expression, and for children, it can be especially valuable. When children are given the opportunity to create art, whether it be at home, nursery, or school, they are able to communicate their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a way that may be difficult to express through words alone. This…
In the digital age, children are more exposed to screens than ever before. Although screens and technology can offer various benefits such as exposure to a range of information and things to keep you entertained for hours, they are not always the most healthy for us or our kids. To encourage your children to put…
As a parent, selecting the right nursery for your little one can be an overwhelming task. After all, you want to ensure that your child is in a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment. Here at Keren’s Nursery, we’ll walk you through the essential factors to consider when choosing a nursery. From location and staff qualifications…
Here at Keren’s Nursery, we understand that you want the best for your child, and their education is a top priority. When it comes to early education nursery school plays a crucial role in laying a strong foundation for their future learning. But as your little one grows and time flies by, you may find…
Starting nursery is an exciting milestone in your child’s life. It’s a time of growth, learning, and socialisation. As a parent, you play a crucial role in preparing your child for this new chapter. In this guide, we’ll explore the essential skills, behaviours, and knowledge your child should have before starting nursery. By helping your…
Here at Keren’s Nursery, we understand that not every child is the same, so the answer can be quite challenging, however, we have developed this guide to evaluate how nurseries such as ours can be beneficial to your child’s development so that you can walk away with your own opinion on whether or not a…
Physical activity for a growing child is key in their development. On average, children are expected to do one hour of physical activity per day but less than half the children in the UK actually achieve this. It’s important that physical activity is regularly implemented in a child’s life, not only for their physical…
Storytelling does not simply belong to talented writers or the wise – it’s a part of our everyday lives, whether we notice it or not. Storytelling encompasses both real and fictional stories, that we each tell one another in formal and informal settings. The act of storytelling has been around for centuries and is present…
Language development is an extremely important part of a child’s early development as it supports their cognitive and social skills. As a result, helping them later in life both socially and academically. In this blog, we’ll explore why language is important for a child’s overall development and how this can be encouraged throughout a child’s…
When it comes to toys, children can’t help but be drawn to them to such an extent that almost anything can be a toy when a child puts their mind to it. However, there is more to toys than just fun and enjoyment for kids. According to research, toys can largely help children explore…
A forest school is an educational institution where children are nurtured and encouraged to learn in an outdoor setting, promoting the development of vital skills while interacting with nature. Forest schools often have an outdoor area that encourages play, discovery, curiosity and social play with a strong connection to the natural world, so that they…
At Keren’s, we know that the search for avenues to foster our children’s growth and development is a constant endeavour. Among the myriad options, one avenue stands out for its multifaceted benefits: introducing children to the world of musical instruments. Engaging in musical activities from an early age can profoundly impact their cognitive, emotional, and…
Whether we’re discussing cats, dogs, rabbits or chickens, I’m sure you won’t be surprised to hear that animals have huge benefits for children in their development years, as many of us are animal lovers and already know the unconditional love they share. The good news is that a child’s well-being is also increased from interactions…
Giving your child the best start to their academic life is one thing that many of us parents worry about and it is hard to know if sending your kids to nursery will benefit it, however, there is a plentiful amount of studies to suggest that there are huge benefits. Children Aged 0-5 Years…
Teaching your child to read can start at any stage, no matter how small they might be. But how do you begin your child’s reading journey? Despite what some people may believe, reading is not a natural process but rather requires substantial teaching of the correct skills, such as phonics and articulation. However, At Keren’s…
Oral hygiene plays a crucial role in maintaining your child’s overall health and well-being. Instilling good dental habits, such as regular brushing, in your children from an early age is essential. However, getting kids to brush their teeth can often be a challenging task. Here at Keren’s Nursery, we believe in oral hygiene education and…
Patience can be a difficult skill to nurture. If the only way you console your child is to give in to their needs, it can be easy to avoid the concept of patience. Yet might work against your child the older they get. As an adult, it’s much easier to apply patience because we have…
As parents, we strive to provide the best opportunities for our children’s growth and development. One crucial aspect of their overall development is social skills. Nurseries, also known as preschools or early learning centres, play a significant role in fostering social development in young children. In this post, we will explore the various ways in…
As parents, one of the most important things we can do for our children is to help them develop a healthy sense of self-esteem. This is particularly important in the early years, as this is when children are most vulnerable to negative experiences that can impact their self-worth and overall mental health. Fortunately, there are…
The act of playing dress up has been a timeless childhood tradition that spans cultures and generations. From donning costumes and pretending to be superheroes or princesses to imitating the professions of doctors or firefighters, children engage in imaginative play that goes beyond mere entertainment. While it may seem like innocent fun, playing dress up…
As parents, we often find ourselves discouraging our children from playing with their food at the dinner table. However, at Keren’s Nursery, we believe that encouraging a little food playtime can actually be beneficial for your child’s development. Playing with food can be an exciting and educational experience that offers a wide range of benefits.…
At Keren’s Nursery, we know that all parents often seek meaningful ways to enrich their little one’s lives and promote their development, and one of the most fulfilling and educational experiences you can offer them is the opportunity to play with animals. Interacting with our furry, feathered, or scaly friends can be a profoundly transformative…
Parents are constantly seeking ways to nurture their children’s growth and development. From providing them with a safe environment to offering educational toys, we strive to give them the best possible start in life. One often overlooked aspect of a child’s development is the role that colours play. Colours are not only visually appealing but…
As a parent, one of the most challenging and worrisome experiences is when your child falls ill. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed and anxious, but your love and care can make a significant difference in your child’s recovery process. While it’s always best to consult a medical professional for advice, we’ve created a comprehensive guide…
In a world increasingly dominated by screens and digital distractions, fostering a connection between children and the natural world has become more important than ever. Gardening offers a wonderful opportunity for kids to engage with nature, learn valuable life skills, and develop a sense of responsibility. Whether you have a sprawling back garden or just…
As your little one explores the world around them, their sensory development plays a crucial role in shaping their understanding of the environment. To foster this growth, providing the right toys is essential to ensure your child’s senses are enhanced while also keeping them engaged and entertained. What Is Sensory Development? Sensory development refers…
The COVID-19 pandemic brought about unprecedented challenges and disruptions to societies worldwide. As governments implemented strict measures to contain the virus, one significant consequence was the imposition of lockdowns, confining individuals to their homes. While these measures were crucial for public health, the prolonged periods of isolation and restricted social interactions have had a profound…
We know how important it is for toddlers to get a good night’s sleep. A well-established sleep routine not only helps your little ones fall asleep faster but also ensures they wake up feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day at nursery or at home. In this post, we’ll explore some effective strategies…
At Keren’s, we know you want the best for your children, so ensuring their healthy development should be a top priority for you. In the age of digital distractions, it’s easy for kids to spend most of their time indoors. However, encouraging outdoor play can have profound benefits for their physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being.…
At Keren’s, we know that parents are constantly striving to strike a balance between engaging their children’s boundless energy and ensuring they have moments of relaxation and calm. “Quiet time” activities can be a game-changer in this regard, providing kids with the opportunity to unwind, foster creativity, and develop crucial skills. In this post, we’ll…
As a parent, ensuring that your little one receives proper nutrition is essential for their growth and development. Introducing healthy finger foods can be an exciting and effective way to encourage independent eating and cultivate good eating habits from an early age. We know getting kids to eat healthy foods like vegetables and fruits can…
One of the most common questions we get asked by parents is “How can I make my child eat more vegetables?” At Keren’s Nursery, we know how important nutrition is in ensuring that children grow up physically healthy and strong. For years, our provision has encouraged children to eat their five-a-day, through our menus, nutritious…
Acroyoga is a physical exercise that combines yoga and acrobatics, and we’re one of the only nurseries to offer this. Founder of Keren’s Nursery, Keren Ben Ezra say she was lucky to see some of our acroyoga sessions, “It was incredible to see children taking part and overcoming their fears. They’re building strength and…
At our nurseries, we’re always mindful of consumption and reusing resources. Following on from our planet topic and combining elements of our Forest School sessions, children use natural materials and recycle parts of old wall displays to create a group tapestry. The foci for these activities are fine motor control and understanding the world, as…
Digital magazine London Mother has placed Keren’s Nursery in the top ten of its ultimate guide to the best nurseries in London 2021. The guide speaks highly of our brilliant team, saying, “The teachers are gentle and understanding, especially during the initial settling-in period, and want you to feel free to share your concerns with…
We’re so proud to have been selected as one of London’s Top Nurseries in 2021 by our friends at My Baba. They say a big draw of our nurseries is “the sense of community and belonging that Keren’s offers” as well as “the strong belief that time outside, independence and creativity are key for happy…
This article is an interview with Assaf Ben Ezra (ABE) and TechRound about how Keren’s Nursery came into being. It first appeared on TechRound.co.uk TechRound: What’s the story of Keren’s Nursery and how was it founded? ABE: The “Keren” in Keren’s Nursery is Keren Ben Ezra, my wife. We started the nursery as a…
Everyone has heard of the terrible twos; they’re mentioned with dread by parents with young children. But what are the terrible twos and what makes them so potentially ‘terrible?’ When Can the Terrible Twos Hit? This question is not as silly as you think. Parents often observe a noticeable change in their child’s behaviour when…
Temper tantrums are enough to cause a great deal of stress to even the calmest and collected parents and carers. Temper tantrums can be anything from screaming and crying because it’s bedtime, to the classic and oh so public super-market meltdown. Toddler tantrums are completely normal and nothing to be ashamed of. Importantly, by being…
Whether they’re playing or listening to it, music is a great source of entertainment for children, but it isn’t just a nice hobby to have and can also provide a whole host of benefits during a young child’s earliest years, which are also their most formative. Exposing your young child to music early on can…
Nursery can be a big step for both you and your child, no matter which number child you are preparing to send to your chosen nursery in London or elsewhere. Whilst many parents may be hesitant to take the step which is sending a child to nursery, it can be incredibly beneficial for your child’s…
Keren’s Nursery “Busy Jar” Filled to the brim with ideas for different activities designed to support parents and children. The aim is to encourage children to work independently, or as a family unit, using age-appropriate tasks. These activities encourage a range of independent and family play. Some are pure fun designed to spark creativity. Others…
Our Hampstead Garden Suburb Manager, Marlene Costa has some brilliant ideas for recreating Forest School activities in your own garden or outdoor spaces close to home. In these five lessons, you’ll find out how to make a bracelet from simple crafting materials and natural items found in your garden, make a nature stamp, natural paint,…
Nursery Manager at our Hampstead Garden Suburb Nursery, Marlene Costa used to work with people with dementia and knows just how much they suffer from being isolated in normal times, let alone now. “We’ve all noticed so many changes in the last six months, not least amongst the most isolated, older members of our community.…
There’s a new style of teaching in town Newsweek has reported that Reggio Emilia schools are among the best in the world and the method is gradually being adopted by some of the most innovative pre-school and primary schools around the world. Keren explains why her award-winning nursery chain Keren’s Nursery, has firmly embedded the innovative…
In line with social distancing, we’ve devised a brand new way for prospective parents to experience the famous Keren’s style of care we’ve become so well known for over the years. Since you can’t come to us before signing up, let us bring a taste of our nurseries into your home. As a sneak peak,…
When it comes to pre-schoolers’ physical development, we leave no stone unturned. Founder Keren Ben Ezra: “We believe that daily outside play is fundamental to children’s mental health as well as their physical well-being.” We chose the locations of all of our nurseries with this in mind, so that children can benefit from as much…
Many parents choose our nurseries because of our exceptional commitment to languages For Ivrit speakers, each of our branches has at least one full-time Ivrit-speaking member of staff. For all children with English as a second language, (ESOL) we regularly teach in special “small circles”, our very own way of enhancing language skills. We integrate…
Bike Week is an annual celebration to showcase cycling. Riding a bike can easily be a part of everyday life and Bike Week’s aim is to inspire people all over the UK to give cycling a try. Physical activity strengthens developing muscles and bones in children. It improves and enhances coordination, motor skills, social skills,…
Announcing our Summer Open Days for Keren’s Nursery Visit us at Hampstead Garden Suburb on July 2nd and Holland Park on July 4th Join us at our Open Days to find out more about our Ofsted outstanding nurseries, and to register your child. 9.30 – 11.30 am, registration essential.Message us or email marketing@kerensnursery.com to confirm…
In case you missed it, Simon Rocker from The Jewish Chronicle paid us a visit recently. Read what he had to say here.
If you’re looking at pre-schools or nurseries, you may very well have heard the latest buzz about Forest School. The approach has come into vogue over the last few years. We offer Forest School at all our nurseries; but what is it really about, and why is it so popular? Does it mean little your…
Developing and encouraging independence in the early years’ stage is vital for integration into school and of course, for life. The concept of independence and its importance is included in the national Early Years Foundation Stage guidelines. These state that “every child should learn to be resilient, confident and self-assured.” Our role as parents…
At Keren’s Nursery, we embrace animal companions whenever possible. We have two regular four-legged visitors; Buzz the Maltese-breed dog and Digby, a Norfolk Terrier. Both bring a whole host of benefits to the children at the nursery. They are both gentle and fearless, greeting everyone as a friend. They don’t shed hair, so they are…
As teachers, we often see that children need their downtime by the time the school holidays arrive. Time off to kick back and avoid the usual rush of nursery and school life. Time to just be. As a parent myself, I understand the stress level of working parents and also non-working parents from our…
Keren shares her top tips on how to be prepared to start a new term with your toddler. This year is my fourteenth as a hands-on founder of a thriving chain of nurseries. I suspect I’ve settled in more than one thousand toddlers and pre-schoolers in that time. I am lucky to have been…
Now that the days are longer, and in the most part, drier too, we encourage families to walk to and from the nursery. Coming to and from nursery on foot is an opportunity for children to be physically active by walking, scooting or cycling first thing in the morning prior to sitting in a…
Some children find night time and darkness difficult. Keren offers her top tips to counter these anxieties. This article first appeared on www.KensingtonMums.co.uk Have fun and play with your child in the dark to counter any associations of fear. Make tents, dens and tunnels, and play hide and seek in the dark to create a…
We’re thrilled to announce our Holland Park branch has been awarded Ofsted outstanding rating in its first inspection. This means we have an incredible 100% outstanding record for all three of our nurseries. Ofsted praised our leadership and management, noting “the management team plans a rich, broad and varied curriculum for children.” The inspection…
Don’t we all wish to have creative, independent, innovative and self-confident children? Being a mum and an educator led me to believe that as parents we should observe our children and allow their creative processes to evolve naturally.
