As we settle into our ELC routine, one ongoing goal we have for all children is to strengthen their connection to others; forming secure attachments whilst also building confidence and resilience.

When children are secure in their attachments to others, they understand that the important adults in their lives, such as their parents, other family members, and their ELC teachers are there as a safe base.

Kent Hoffman, author of Raising a Secure Child writes:

“If we want our children to be independent, to go out and take on the world, we have to give them full confidence that they can come back to us as needed.”

Knowing they have trusted adults in their lives can help with separation anxiety and strengthen resilience to cope with unexpected events. Building resilience takes time and practice, and looks different for every child.

In the ELC, we aim to support families to create a consistent and predictable arrival routine. Whether it’s a special ritual or routine such as a special hug or handshake or acting out saying goodbye at home and following the ‘plan’, these strategies help the child feel more confident in the moment. Reminding children that you are coming back at a set time, that their teachers are there for them, and you know they can do hard things is also beneficial. Some children may also enjoy a heart drawn on the top of the hand (a 'love button') or other tokens that keep parent and child connected through the day.

For most children though, the joy of seeing their friends and participating in lots of fun and engaging experiences helps to ease the transition from home to the Early Learning Centre.

Ms Bernadette Gioia
Director of the Early Learning Centre