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In the news

The Telegraph: Screen time damages toddlers’ speech, study finds

By Kindred Squared | January 12, 2026

A major UK study found that toddlers who spend long periods on screens have significantly smaller vocabularies and more behavioural issues, with negative effects becoming clear after about 86 minutes a day. In response, the government plans to issue non-judgmental guidance for parents on managing screen time later in April 2026. Read the full article…

BBC News: High screen time limits vocabulary in toddlers, research finds

By Kindred Squared | January 12, 2026

Government research shows high screen time in under-fives is linked to poorer vocabulary and attention, prompting plans for England’s first official guidance on toddler screen use. Ministers say screens should be used more intentionally, alongside reading and interaction, rather than replacing them. Read the full article here.

Nursery World Magazine: Government gives backing to new potty training guidance by early years experts

By Kindred Squared | December 9, 2025

The new Potty Training Guide covers when to start potty training, how to get all children enthusiastic about using the potty and toilet, and has practical advice and ideas to help parents. Read all about it in Nursery World Magazine, the full article is available here.

NMT: Government backs potty training guide

By Kindred Squared | December 9, 2025

NMT shared details on the recently published Potty Training Guide, noting that it was developed by a coalition of early years organisations and has the backing of the UK Government. Read the full article here.

LBC: Kindred Squared Director, Felicity Gillespie, speaks to Nick Ferrari about the Potty Training Guide

By Kindred Squared | December 9, 2025

Kindred Squared Director, Felicity Gillespie, speaks to Nick Ferrari about the Potty Training Guide. Listen to the interview here [from 2:36:49]

Netmums: ‘School readiness is critical’ – New potty training guide launches for parents as 1 in 4 children start school in nappies

By Kindred Squared | December 9, 2025

Netmums shared detail on the new Potty Training Guide, noting: “It’s a major new venture, backed for the first time by both the Education Secretary and the Health Secretary as early years experts and ministers say parents deserve clearer, consistent advice.” Read the full article here.

The Mirror: Parents given potty guidance to stop teachers wasting hours toilet-training kids

By Kindred Squared | December 9, 2025

The Mirror shares detail on the Potty Training Guide definition and website. Read the full article here.

Netmums: Is your child ‘school-ready?’ – 29 key skills your reception-age child should know

By Kindred Squared | September 16, 2025

Netmums shares detail on the Starting Reception definition and website. Read the full article here.

Made for Mums: School readiness secrets – what experts say every child should know before starting reception

By Kindred Squared | September 16, 2025

Kindred Squared Chief Executive, Felicity Gillespie, spoke with Made for Mums about the Starting Reception definition and website. Read the full article here.

TES: What if… we all agreed what children should learn before age 5?

By Kindred Squared | September 16, 2025

As part of TES Magazine’s thought experiment series, Kindred Squared Chief Executive, Felicity Gillespie, argues that we need universal agreement on early development, from when to toilet train to ‘learning’ for babies and toddlers. Read the full article here.