In safe, kind, nurturing, consistent and stable relationships children
learn that adults can help them. It is first through the child’s
relationship with caregivers that the child develops an understanding
of themselves. Caregivers’ interactions form how the child perceives
and feels about themselves in moment-by-moment interactions. When a caregiver
responds to a child’s needs in a kind, safe and consistent manner,
the child learns that they are important, loved and will be cared for.
Caregivers also provide the foundation for helping the child understand
their emotions and become partners in helping the child regulate these
emotions. Children do not have the ability to self-regulate and need the
caregivers in their life to help them through co-regulation. It is through
co-regulation that the foundation is laid for future self-regulation and
mindfulness. It is important that caregivers themselves are regulated
when they are helping the child calm down, too.
The interactions between an infant/young child and caregivers set the blueprint
for future relationships with peers and family members. It is important
to allow a child to stay close to a regulated, caring adult when they
need extra time to adjust to an environment. Often children will utilize
a ‘security or transition object.’ Socializing begins to teach
cause and effect (for example, If I do ___, adults respond by doing ___).
Play encourages children to use creativity while developing their imagination
and physical, cognitive and emotional strength. Children’s sensory
development is supported through different types of play including child-directed
and caregiver-directed play, and is imperative for healthy brain development.
It is through play, with a regulated caregiver nearby, that children at
a very early age engage and interact in the world around them.
Praise them. Even on the little things! Tell them positive phrases such as you are
great at coloring or thank you for cleaning up your toys.
Acknowledge and label feelings. For example, I know you are sad you have to go to bed, but you are tired
and ready for sleep.
Practice slow breathing with the child with bubbles or pinwheels. This can also be a great strategy to use if they are feeling upset.
Create a safe and calm place to regulate. Provide them with a safe and calm place for your child to use when they
are upset or sad. Encourage them to use this space to calm down any time.
This can be in their bedroom, on the couch, etc.
Empathetic communication. Truly listen to what the child tells you. Repeat what they told you to
show you heard them and their voice matters.
Assist them in self-care. Be patient with your child and let them try to do simple tasks with your
help. This can be during bath time, while getting dressed, putting shoes
on, etc. They may not do a perfect job, but it boosts their confidence
and self-esteem.
Read together. Every single day!
Have conversations. Talk to each other as you play, do errands, or visit friends and family.
Give tasks. Allow your toddler to help with simple chores and tasks at home such as
putting toys away or cleaning up a small spill. It may not be done perfectly
and take patience, but they are learning!
Assist them in conflict resolution. Toddlers learn through experiences. Provide young children with opportunities
to work on their problem-solving skills and offer gentle guidance and
encouragement when they are struggling.
Encourage free play. Let them use their imagination and explore together! Build a fort, go
for walks, do art projects such as coloring or painting, explore the world
through talk and touch.
Encourage play with other children. Use turn taking activities such as rolling a ball between children. This
is also a great time to model positive interactions, such as sharing,
trading and taking turns. This can also be a good time to teach and encourage
boundaries.
