Nurturing Minds - The Early Years Academy

Supporting Mental Health: Nurturing Minds and Hearts

Supporting Mental Health At The Early Years Academy

At The Early Years Academy, we know that nurturing a child’s mind is just as vital as supporting their physical growth and development. But we also know that this emotional support doesn’t stop with our little ones, it must extend to their families and our hardworking staff, too. Mental health matters, and creating an environment that prioritises well-being is not an added bonus; it’s a foundation for thriving children, strong families, and resilient teams.

For Children: Safe Spaces That Spark Joy

From the moment a child enters one of our nurseries in Ibstock, Shrewsbury, Loughborough, or Derby, we’re laying the groundwork for lifelong mental and emotional strength. That starts with helping every child feel a sense of belonging. Secure attachments with key carers, comforting routines, and cosy environments mean children feel safe, seen, and supported, an essential part of early mental health.

Our programmes, from the Forest School Academy, Baking Academy to the Intergenerational Academy, these give children opportunities to express themselves, build confidence, and develop empathy. Whether they’re baking banana bread, tending to plants, or reading stories with a grandparent figure, our children are learning how to handle emotions, build relationships, and feel proud of who they are.

For Families: Reassurance, Partnership, and Open Conversations

We know how overwhelming parenting can feel, especially when it comes to mental health. Our families are often balancing work, home life, and worry about whether their child is happy and progressing.

That’s why communication is key at The Early Years Academy. Our team uses the Famly app to share daily updates, photos, and observations, helping families feel involved and reassured. We also invite parents to regular events and focus weeks, where they can join in the fun, speak to educators, and see their child in action.

We offer unlimited settling-in sessions, giving both children and parents the time they need to transition at their own pace. Parents don’t need to hide their worries here, our team is here to listen, guide, and support.

For Staff: A Culture of Care

Our educators are the heart of everything we do, and we’re deeply committed to supporting their mental well-being. Working in early years can be deeply rewarding, but it’s also emotionally and physically demanding.

That’s why our 3B Benefits Package includes wellbeing days, a 24/7 counselling helpline, and flexible working policies to support staff through life’s ups and downs . We also prioritise professional development and reflective practice, helping staff feel confident, capable, and valued.

We’ve worked hard to create a culture where everyone from our newest apprentice to our most experienced manager feels part of a supportive team. We share successes, listen to concerns, and always strive to create spaces filled with kindness, calm, and purpose.

Why It Matters

Mental health isn’t a topic we visit once a year, it’s something we weave into our daily practice, from the layout of our rooms to the warmth of our welcome. Whether it’s helping a toddler navigate big emotions, supporting a new mum’s return to work, or checking in with a staff member after a tough day, our ethos of Belonging, Being, and Becoming runs through it all.

Because when children feel secure, families feel supported, and educators feel valued everyone thrives.

If you’d like to know more about how we nurture well-being across our nurseries, or you just want to talk about what support might help your child or family, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to listen and we’re in this together.

Ready To Experience The EYA Way For Yourself?

Book a visit to one of our nurseries today and see how we create a home-away-from-home for your child.