Right Start Online - Parenting advice for young families

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Right Start Online - Parenting advice for young families

Right Start Online is the go-to destination for parents of children aged 6 months to 7 years. The children aren’t forgotten either!

It delivers an essential mix of informed editorial on all those issues close to parents’ hearts, including Learning, Health, Psychology and Lifestyle features. The Right Start Awards Guide is available annually in the run up to Christmas, providing an essential shopping guide to toys, books, games and baby essential products plus much more, for busy parents in the seasonal rush! Each month there i

s a new activity section for them to download and get involved with. Plus look out for our exclusive online competitions.

21/08/2026

👪 #4 Caring for a pet is a shared family responsibility

It’s important for children to understand that while they can help with daily tasks, adults are ultimately responsible for keeping the pet safe, healthy and well. This helps avoid unrealistic expectations and ensures the animal’s welfare always comes first!
https://www.rightstartonline.co.uk/features/pet-power

20/08/2026

🐱🐇 #3 Understanding that pets have feelings and needs

Children who learn that pets feel scared, excited, bored, or lonely become far more empathetic caregivers. Conversations like, ‘The puppy is hiding because he’s feeling shy’ or ‘The rabbit is twitching his little nose because he’s curious’ help children form emotional connections and respond with kindness.
https://www.rightstartonline.co.uk/features/pet-power

19/08/2026

🐶🐱 #2 Safe handling, boundaries, and giving space

Pets have times when they want to play, and times when they want space. Children can learn to follow simple rules: ❎don’t disturb pets while they sleep or eat, ❎avoid picking them up without an adult, and ✅always let the animal choose to come closer. These boundaries help children feel successful and help pets feel secure. Learning to pause and wait also strengthens children’s self-regulation skills. https://www.rightstartonline.co.uk/features/pet-power

18/08/2026

🐰 #1 Understanding gentle touch

Young children may think they’re being gentle even when they’re not. Before a pet comes home, practise stroking a soft toy, using an open hand, or learning two-finger tickles. These small rehearsal moments teach the difference between soft touch and gripping or squeezing, keeping animals safe and happy. https://www.rightstartonline.co.uk/features/pet-power

17/08/2026

🐶Many families consider bringing a pet into the home, but experts warn that children need preparation to interact safely and responsibly. Emily Burgess, director of early years at Family First Nurseries, shares expert guidance on how to make welcoming a pet a positive experience for both children and animals. Check back for her top tips all this week... https://www.rightstartonline.co.uk/features/pet-power

15/08/2026

🌞With all of the hot weather we've been having this summer, a leading dermatologist is warning that millions of parents are neglecting one crucial area when applying sunscreen on children: their scalp. Read our article to find out more... https://www.rightstartonline.co.uk/news/the-sun-and-the-scalp

14/08/2026

🏊 #4 Make water confidence part of summer prep
Confidence, awareness and safety skills are built over time, which is where structured lessons are so valuable.
🏊Swim Academy by Total Fitness provides structured swimming lessons for children aged 0-11, from Baby Swim through to Learn to Swim, delivered by dedicated teachers to build confidence in the water and support each child’s progression while fostering a lifelong love of water. https://www.rightstartonline.co.uk/features/5-essential-water-skills-your-child-should-know-in-august

13/08/2026

🏊 #3 Keep safety advice short and simple

Short, clear reminders are often the most effective way to teach children, especially before a pool day, beach trip or holiday. Remind children to ✅always stay with an adult ✅ never swim alone ✅ stop and think before getting into water ✅ ask before jumping in.
Water safety messages work best when they are repeated little and often. Before a day out, take a few moments to remind children 🔴 where they can swim 🔴who they should stay near and 🔴 what to do if they feel unsure.
https://www.rightstartonline.co.uk/features/5-essential-water-skills-your-child-should-know-in-august

12/08/2026

🏊 #2 Teach children what real-life water can feel like
Swimming in a warm pool, wearing a swimsuit and goggles, feels very different from unexpectedly falling into cold water fully clothed, where children may also face currents, waves or uneven ground.
Clothes can feel ❌ heavy ❌ slow movement down and ❌make it harder to stay calm.
Swimming in clothes helps children experience water safety in a practical way. It teaches them that if they ever find themselves in water unexpectedly, the first thing to do is stay calm, float if they can and call for help. https://www.rightstartonline.co.uk/features/5-essential-water-skills-your-child-should-know-in-august

11/08/2026

🏊 #1 BUILD CONFIDENCE BEFORE FOCUSING ON TECHNIQUE
For many children, the biggest milestone is simply feeling comfortable in the water.
That might mean ✅putting their face underwater ✅ jumping in safely ✅ moving without holding the side – or floating on their back, which is a key life-saving skill that can prevent drowning.
For some, confidence comes quickly, but for others it takes time, reassurance and repetition. What matters is helping them feel safe enough to keep trying😊 https://www.rightstartonline.co.uk/features/5-essential-water-skills-your-child-should-know-in-august

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