[Alena]

If there are two teachers in a class, then this is good. Teachers can take turns playing with children and doing other child care work. The teacher’s participation in games with children is very important and interesting.

[Habiibo Saneey]

My advice to other Early Learning Providers looking to build connections with children in their classrooms would be to prioritize active listening and meaningful engagement. Take the time to truly listen to what children have to say, show genuine interest in their thoughts, feelings, and ideas, and validate their experiences. Establish routines and practices that promote trust and consistency, as children thrive in environments where they know what to expect. Moreover, make an effort to understand each child’s unique interests and needs, adapting your teaching and interactions accordingly. Create opportunities for one-on-one interactions and “Special Time” as mentioned in Handout 2, allowing children to lead and express themselves freely. Building connections takes time and effort, but the relationships you foster will not only enhance the learning experience but also contribute to a positive and supportive classroom atmosphere.

[Winter Clark]

I would tell them to take things in stride, kids aren’t usually misbehaving just to be unruly. Usually there is an underlying cause. If we spend each day getting to know our students individually and as human beings, we can create a safe and trusting environment. This type of environment children thrive in, but so do adults. I think we always need to take a step back and ask ourselves if something is helpful or is it working? If not, what things can we change to make things easier on everyone.

[Isabella]

My advice would be to keep an open mind while working with children. You have to think deeper and do more observing in order to help different children and find the individuality in each child. It’s not always going to be easy but the more time you spend playing and working alongside children, the more comfortable you become with each other. Focus on building relationships and not just teaching a child. You should be working alongside a child, you can both learn a lot from each other.

[Corey]

I think that actively engaging with the kids is very important in creating trusting connections with them. It’s crucial to spend time learning about each child- what they like, how they learn best, etc

[Jayhla tatro]

Every child is different and you may have to take time to build that connection with a child

[Maria Bernal]

It is important to listen and speak in a way that makes children feel important and valued.

[Kim Arman]

Create a rotation time or space in your day to interact one on one with each child in your care to develop a trusting relationship.

[Rubi Ruelas]

What advice would you give to other Early learning Providers who want to build connections with children in their classroom?

I would remind them that engaging with children is the best way to build connections with the children in their class. I would also remind them that building family connections also helps strength that enthusiasm and security between the provider and the child. A good, working relationship between the provider and family member, always reinforces the sense of belonging and inclusion in the child.

[Mandy Hung]

I like to greet them when they arrive and give my attention and care to them while they wash their hands. At table time or free choice, I will find some students and play with them for about 5-10 minutes. Snack time is also a great time to social with kids. Ask about what they like to eat or what they like to do when no in school.

[Stephanie]

Engage with the children by playing and talking with them. Use active supervision and the “serve and return” method.

[Norlyn Martinez]

Debemos de hacer sentir a los niños comodos y seguros y tratar de resolver todo lo que se presente con calma y trasmiter esa calma a los niños, ello se van a tranuilizar y sentiran que son escchucados.

[sheetal]

we should try to follow the “serve and return” as many times as possible this way we can build connections with kids/children.

[Karen Henderson]

Spend lots of time listening to the child. Play and Play and Play with them. Engage with them. Sing and dance with them. Provide tender loving care techniques as much as possible. Show them how. Watch them do.

[Sara F.]

To build connections with children, early learning providers should adopt the “serve and return” method, meaning that each bid for connection made by a child should be followed by a warm, nurturing response from the caregiver. Offer one-on-one or special time to children and participate in play!