Transcript for The Importance of Building Positive Relationships with Young Children
Dr. Jeffrey Trawick-Smith: Of course, the most important attachment is between children and their families. But a nice strong attachment to a childcare provider also can have a powerful impact on children’s social development and their behavior. One study found that children who became attached to a childcare provider for just one year, it was just for a year, at age four, were found to be better adjusted later in life. They were found to have more friends; they were able to interact with peers in a positive way; their teachers rated them as better adjusted to school, well into the elementary years. So a message here for childcare providers is that there’s a lasting benefit for forming a good, positive, strong bond with children in childcare.
© 2006 Center for Early Childhood Education at Eastern Connecticut State University
May be reprinted for educational purposes.