A strong emotional environment is a place where children feel safe, cared for and relaxed and are physically, mentally and emotionally healthy. Children need to form a close bond and a trusting relationship with a Key Person who must ensure that their care and learning is tailored to meet their individual needs. All adults must tune in to children’s interests and interact with them to support and extend their learning and development, jointly engaging in problem-solving and sustained shared thinking.

Children thrive best in an inclusive environment based on mutual respect, where their uniqueness is valued. Where parents and practitioners work together it has a positive impact on children’s learning. Children feel safe when adults pay high regard to their emotional well-being and provide clear guidance about what is acceptable behaviour.

Positive relationships are built through positive relationships in early years settings by being:

• warm and loving, fostering a sense of belonging
• sensitive and responsive to the child’s needs, feelings and interests
• supportive of the child’s own efforts and independence
• consistent in setting clear boundaries; and stimulating.

(Development Matters in the EYFS, Early Education, 2012)

Useful Resources