Teacher-Child Relationships

RELATE

Responsive, sensitive relationships with educators allow for preschoolers to learn and grow across all areas of development

At a Glance

When children feel safe and connected, they are more able to explore and engage in the world around them. They take appropriate risks, try new things, and show increased self-reliance, persistence, compliance, and focus. When educators anticipate issues and/or calmly address them when they occur, children are more able to quickly re-engage in an activity. Children use their relationships with educators as a model when learning to communicate and relate to others. They seek out educators to help them when they encounter problems or when they need comfort, support, or guidance.

What It Looks Like

A quick glance at ways you can make preschoolers feel welcomed and supported

Make a Personal Connection

Having a daily routine that focuses on relationship-building, like greeting children at the door, helps young children feel safe, supported, and connected.

Join in Children’s Play

Valuing what children have to say and showing genuine interest in their thoughts and ideas promote their independence.

Have Social Conversations

Engaging in social conversations at lunch, during center time, and on the playground can be a great way to get know children and stay connected.

FOUNDATIONAL STRATEGIES

Fostering Teacher-Child Relationships

Responsive, sensitive relationships between educators and children allow children to learn and develop across all areas. Learn quick and simple strategies you can use to build relationships throughout the preschool day.

TARGETED STRATEGIES

Banking Time

Is there a child in your group that is struggling or hard to connect with? Banking time is an evidence-based, targeted approach you can use to foster close relationship with individual children.

TRAUMA-INFORMED CARE

At the Heart of Healing

University of Virginia’s Dr. Amanda Williford talks about cultivating connections after trauma.

FAMILY CONNECTION

Engaging Families Early On

Strong relationships with families lead to strong relationships with children. NAEYC shares key practices that engage families in their child’s early learning.

CONSIDERING EQUITY

Disrupting Racial Bias

Stanford University’s Jennifer Eberhardt discusses the power of racial bias and how to disrupt it in our relationships with children.

BUILDING CONNECTIONS WITH BOOKS

The Dot

The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds illustrates how a sensitive, responsive educator supports a child when she needs it. Vashti, a reluctant young artist, finds inspiration because of her educator’s actions. Books like this provide opportunities to talk about educators and adults as helpers/partners when children have problems.