Love, friendships and the foundation for emotional security
This February, the month of love, we’re taking the opportunity to explore the importance of meaningful relationships in a child’s life. Strong connections with caregivers, family members, and peers provide the foundation for emotional security, shaping a child’s social and emotional development. These bonds foster a sense of belonging and confidence that will support them throughout their lives.
Young children are learning how to share, take turns, express emotions, and build friendships—all essential skills that will help them in school and beyond. By fostering positive relationships, both at home and in early learning environments, we help children develop the confidence and emotional security needed to thrive.
The Importance of Emotional Security
Emotional security is the bedrock of a child’s ability to form healthy relationships. When children feel safe, loved, and understood, they are more willing to explore the world around them, engage in new experiences, and form lasting friendships. Research shows that secure attachments in early childhood contribute to higher self-esteem, better stress management, and stronger social skills later in life.
What Do the Experts Say?
JOHN BOWLBY
John Bowlby’s attachment theory emphasises the importance of secure relationships between children and their caregivers. A strong, loving bond provides the foundation for emotional well-being and helps children build trust in others.
ERIK ERIKSON
Erik Erikson highlighted the importance of social development in early childhood. He believed that children develop trust and autonomy through positive interactions with parents, caregivers, and peers, which supports their ability to form friendships and navigate relationships.
LEV VYGOTSKY
Lev Vygotsky focused on the social nature of learning, arguing that children develop important skills through interactions with others. Engaging in cooperative play and social activities helps children learn empathy, communication, and problem-solving.
At home
While social experiences in early learning settings are valuable, emotional security starts at home. Here are a few simple yet effective ways to support your child’s social and emotional development:
Encourage Open Conversations: Create a safe space where your child feels comfortable expressing their thoughts and emotions. Encourage them to talk about their day, their friendships, and how they feel about different experiences. This helps them develop emotional intelligence and problem-solving skills.
Model Positive Relationships: Children learn by observing the interactions around them. Demonstrate kindness, respect, and empathy in your relationships, whether it’s with family members, friends, or even strangers. Your child will mimic these behaviours in their own friendships.
Arrange Playdates and Social Activities: Give your child opportunities to interact with peers in different settings. Playdates, group activities, and trips to the park allow them to practise sharing, turn-taking, and communication skills.
Teach Conflict Resolution: Disagreements are a natural part of friendships. Teach your child simple ways to express their feelings, listen to others, and find solutions together. Encouraging phrases like, “I feel upset when…” or “Can we find a way to share?” help them develop positive communication habits.
At the Bubble Bus
We believe that strong relationships are at the heart of every child’s learning journey. Through structured activities, cooperative play, and circle time prompts, we encourage children to build friendships and develop important social skills. Our daily routines provide a supportive environment where children feel safe to express themselves, interact with others, and grow in confidence.
