Episode Overview:

In this episode, I explore the importance of building strong connections with children and being a dependable figure in their lives, especially in early childhood education settings. I reflect on key insights from the book Hold On to Your Kids by Dr. Gordon Neufeld and Dr. Gabor Maté, particularly on the dangers of peer orientation and how it impacts children's behaviour. I also share practical tips for creating a stable, connected environment for the children in your care.

Key Points:

• Peer Orientation vs. Adult Connection: When children don’t have strong connections with adults, they often turn to their peers for guidance, which can lead to behavioural and emotional challenges. As educators, we play a vital role in helping children form secure attachments by being the steady, reliable adults they can trust.


• Supporting Behaviour Through Connection: Children need us to be consistent and dependable. When we create a stable, predictable environment, we help them feel safe, which is key to managing behaviour and fostering emotional security. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about showing up in a grounded and confident way so children know they can rely on us.


• Dependability in Practice: Being dependable means setting clear boundaries and routines. Children feel more secure when they know what to expect each day. Simple choices, like offering a child the option of wearing a red jumper or a yellow one, give them a sense of control without overwhelming them.


• The Power of Routine: I talk about the importance of keeping the environment familiar and not changing things too often. When we provide consistency, it helps children feel settled and connected. Think about how disorienting it is when a supermarket changes its layout—it’s the same for children when their environment is constantly being altered. Stability is key.

Practical Tips for Educators:

I share some personal strategies for staying calm and centred as an educator, like taking a few minutes to reset your energy when you’re feeling overwhelmed. Engaging children in everyday tasks, like folding washing, can create moments of connection, especially when a child is struggling.

Upcoming Events:

I’m so excited to announce the Big Hearted Education Conference, happening in June! This will be an amazing opportunity for family daycare providers to connect, learn, and grow. Also, doors for the Essential Elements program open on October 14th. This is a great chance for educators to deepen their practice and build stronger relationships with the children in their care. You can jump on the waitlist here www.bigheartededucation.com/waitlist

Further Reading:

I highly recommend Hold On to Your Kids by Dr. Gordon Neufeld and Dr. Gabor Maté. It’s packed with insights into why adult connections are so important for children’s development.

Get in Touch: I’d love to hear your thoughts on today’s episode! Feel free to leave a review or share your experiences with me. You can also join the waitlist for Essential Elements on the Big Hearted Education website.

Connect with Me:

Website: www.bigheartededucation.com

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