[Jailee]

It is important to spend a lot of time with the children, either through playing, supervision, or talking. Becoming a familiar figure in the school, and one that they look forward to seeing, is an important part of building those relationships.

[Alyssa]

I would suggest following the children’s cues. Be sure to give them that quality one on one time to learn their interests and dislikes. Take the time and allow them to take the time to warm up and form a connection with you.

[Maya]

First day of school play games. Read books. Tell them about yourself ask them about themselves. Make sure that each child is feeling wanted and heard. Make sure that you have a good listening ears when the children are talking. Get down to the level. Be there for them.

[Kiley Kaye]

I would encourage them to get on the child’s level and look around the care environment to find objects or activities that could be particularly engaging for the child. When introducing the child to the activity, positivity and encouragement are huge in making the child feel comfortable to explore further. I would encourage them to ask lots of questions about the outgoing, talkative child, and to sit a little quieter and observe, occasionally offering helpful input for the reserved, shy child. Adaptability is key to reaching each child where they are at and bringing them out of their shell.

[maria]

My first connection I make with students is I look at their backpacks and clothing. Usually that will tell me their likes and I try to ask my kids about the cartoons for references. Reading a book is also a powerful connection to make with the children.

[Amber]

Make everything a game! Walking to another place in the building? Tell the children that if they’re quiet enough, no one would know they were there. This makes even the transitions a time where they are bonding with you.

[Brienne]

I would advise early learning providers wanting to build connections with children in their classroom to, instruct lots of brain stimulations, lots of talking interactions, tons of structured playing, have serve and return situations.

[melissa]

be friendly to them, play with them every morning so that connection can grow.

[Ella]

Be with the kids, play with them, talk to them, get to know the kids on a personal level and learn what they like and dislike. Encourage them to be social with others.

[Hannah]

Interact with the children! Play with them, read with them, and talk with them about the things that they are playing with. Spending time is crucial and having a kind and calm tone will help them gain your trust with you which will help your interactions/connections with them.

[Ellie]

Engage with the children, and give a “serve” to a child that looks bored. Children may be overwhelmed or confused by activities, and will choose to stay by themselves or not participate. By introducing a child to an activity, they will become more curious and will be able to play independently.

[Rebekah]

spead time interacting with all students in the classroom. Ask them about their interests and remeber what they tell you, so that later you can ask again, this helps children feel important.

[Tim]

Provide safe, structured environment where children can grow accustomed to routine and understand signals.

Spend time interacting warmly, listening, playing with, and getting to know children.

Allow point of choice and participate in Special Time with children

[Nathalie]

Making sure to involve all the kids and making sure no is or feels left out of activities. Interacting, talking and asking questions to a child can help build that connection and make them know you see and hear them.

[Caitlyn]

Time spent connecting, listening, supporting and encouraging high levels of play in activities they show interest in. Supporting and scaffolding social dynamics with their peers, trust building through games, activities and attention.