Building secure attachments
Knowing someone is there for me
Children develop secure attachments when they know trusted adults will be available, dependable and emotionally present when needed.
- Children develop secure attachments when they experience adults as dependable and available.
- Knowing someone is there provides children with comfort, reassurance and security.
- Consistent and reliable relationships help children feel safe during times of uncertainty.
- Children learn they can rely on others through many repeated experiences over time.
Through a child's eyes...
“When I know someone will be there for me, I feel safe and secure.”
In everyday moments...
Children learn that important people will be there for them through the many experiences they share each day. Consistent responses help children develop trust that support, comfort and reassurance will be available when needed.
Simple ideas to try
- Greeting children warmly each day.
- Following through on promises and expectations.
- Responding when children seek comfort or support.
- Being present during both joyful and difficult moments.
- Providing reassurance during times of uncertainty.
Building through relationships...
Secure attachments develop when adults are consistently available and responsive. Over time, children learn that trusted adults can be relied upon when they need support.
Simple ideas to try
- Be emotionally available when children seek connection.
- Respond consistently to children's needs and communication.
- Offer comfort and reassurance during times of distress.
- Follow through on commitments whenever possible.
- Create predictable and dependable interactions.
Learning through play...
Play strengthens attachment relationships by allowing children to move confidently between exploration and connection, returning to trusted adults for reassurance when needed.
Simple ideas to try
- Join children in play and follow their lead.
- Be available when children seek connection during play.
- Share moments of joy, laughter and delight.
- Use playful interactions to strengthen relationships.
- Reconnect through play following separations or difficult experiences.
Creating supportive spaces...
Predictable and welcoming environments help children feel secure and supported. Familiar routines, people and places reinforce children's sense that trusted adults will be there when needed.
Simple ideas to try
- Create calm and predictable environments.
- Establish consistent routines and rituals.
- Ensure children have access to familiar adults.
- Provide comforting spaces for connection and reassurance.
- Create environments where children feel safe to seek support.
Supporting children across contexts...
At home ...
Children develop secure attachments when family relationships are warm, dependable and consistent. Everyday interactions provide many opportunities to communicate, "I am here for you."
Simple ideas to try
- Spend regular one-to-one time together.
- Follow through on routines and promises.
- Be emotionally available during challenging moments.
- Offer comfort, reassurance and encouragement when needed.
In early learning settings...
Secure attachments with educators support children's wellbeing, learning and participation. Consistent, responsive relationships help children feel safe and supported throughout the day.
Simple ideas to try
- Develop warm and dependable relationships with children.
- Create predictable routines and transitions.
- Ensure children have trusted adults they can turn to.
- Work in partnership with families to provide continuity of care.
Try this today...
- Notice how your child seeks comfort, support or reassurance throughout the day.
- Create a small daily ritual that communicates, "I'm here for you."
- Spend uninterrupted time connecting with your child.
- Reflect on the ways you communicate reliability and dependability.
- Consider how routines and relationships help your child feel secure.