Building secure attachments
Feeling safe with others
Feeling safe with others allows children to build secure relationships and confidently participate in everyday experiences.
- Children develop emotional safety through warm, respectful relationships.
- Feeling safe encourages children to express themselves openly.
- Safe relationships support children's wellbeing, learning and participation.
- Emotional safety develops through many consistent experiences over time.
Through a child's eyes...
“When I feel safe with you, I can be myself.”
In everyday moments...
Children experience emotional safety when they feel accepted, respected and supported by the people around them. These everyday experiences help children relax, participate and express themselves with confidence.
Simple ideas to try
- Being welcomed warmly.
- Sharing thoughts and feelings without fear.
- Knowing mistakes are accepted as part of learning.
- Feeling included in everyday experiences.
Building through relationships...
Emotionally safe relationships allow children to express themselves, communicate openly and develop trust in others. When children feel accepted for who they are, relationships become a source of comfort, confidence and belonging.
Simple ideas to try
- Listen with warmth and attention.
- Accept children's thoughts and feelings.
- Respond calmly during difficult moments.
- Help children feel valued and respected.
Learning through play...
Play provides opportunities for children to experience acceptance, cooperation and belonging with others. Feeling emotionally safe during play encourages children to take part, share ideas and enjoy being with others.
Simple ideas to try
- Join children in shared play experiences.
- Encourage inclusive and cooperative play.
- Help children resolve disagreements respectfully.
- Celebrate kindness and teamwork.
Creating supportive spaces...
Children are more likely to feel emotionally safe in environments that are calm, welcoming and predictable. Thoughtfully designed environments help children feel comfortable participating, exploring and building relationships.
Simple ideas to try
- Create welcoming and inclusive environments.
- Establish familiar routines and expectations.
- Provide quiet places for rest and reconnection.
- Create spaces where every child feels they belong.
Supporting children across contexts...
At home ...
Feeling safe within family relationships gives children the confidence to express themselves and explore the world around them. Everyday experiences of acceptance and understanding help children develop lasting emotional security.
Simple ideas to try
- Welcome children's thoughts and feelings.
- Respond calmly during challenging moments.
- Create predictable family routines.
- Help children feel accepted for who they are.
In early learning settings...
Emotionally safe learning environments encourage children to participate, communicate and build relationships with confidence. Consistent, respectful interactions help children feel secure throughout the day.
Simple ideas to try
- Greet children warmly each day.
- Build respectful relationships.
- Encourage every child's participation.
- Create an inclusive classroom community
Try this today...
- Notice what helps your child feel safe and comfortable with others.
- Create opportunities for your child to share their thoughts and feelings.
- Let your child know they are accepted, even when they make mistakes.
- Reflect on how your words and actions help your child feel emotionally safe.
- Look for small ways to strengthen your child's sense of belonging.