Two familiar names from University of Northampton (UON) are at the top of the new edition of an influential international early childhood journal.
The latest issue of the International Journal of Birth and Parent Education (IJBPE) is co‑edited by Emeritus Professor Eunice Lumsden alongside the outgoing editor and her colleague Dr Helen Simmons, who serves as the journal’s Deputy Editor.
The new edition places a strong spotlight on global and UK-wide commitments to the Early Childhood Development agenda, with articles exploring themes central to improving children’s earliest experiences.
The current edition can be read here and articles look at sustainability in Early Childhood settings and quality provision in baby rooms (designated, safe spaces in homes or nurses for infants and toddlers designed for sleeping, changing, and playing).
Professor Lumsden says: “This edition of the International Journal of Birth and Parent Education showcases practice and research that is urgently relevant to professionals and policymakers. It echoes the shared values and vision of Helen, me, the journal’s wider team and those who work in and support the Early Childhood sector. Helen and I are delighted to support the journal’s continued mission to express these insights.
“It also dovetails with the national work of the Rt Hon Andrea Leadsom and the national charity she created, the 1001 Critical Days Foundation. That organisation champions the vital period from conception to age two as the building blocks for lifelong wellbeing.
“University of Northampton continues to support this national mission, aligning its research, teaching, and partnerships with the Foundation’s evidence‑based focus.”
The release of this IJBPE edition also arrives at a pivotal moment for the UK’s literacy agenda. Led by the Department for Education and the National Literacy Trust, the National Year of Reading 2026 is a major initiative responding to record lows in reading enjoyment among children and young people.
Dr Simmons continues: “Early reading habits form a crucial part of child development, closely linked to communication, emotional connection, and developing early relationships – all vital to help us stand a better chance to grow and flourish as adults.
“As a university deeply engaged in Early Childhood research and working with families, we strongly support the goals of the National Year of Reading.”