The early years are a critical period for all learning, in particular social-emotional learning. Childminders can play a central role in guiding children’s social and emotional development, supporting children to understand their emotions and develop their behaviour skills.

To do this, you must first understand that children’s behaviour is an important way of communicating their emotions and their needs. By understanding the reasons for a child’s behaviour, and what it is they might be feeling, you will be able to respond in a positive rather than a reactive way, which will lead to better outcomes for the child.

Where children feel included, respected, safe and secure, and when their achievements and contributions are valued and acknowledged, they are more likely to develop self-confidence, resilience, and positive views about themselves. Their behaviour will reflect this.

For more information visit Childminding – Understanding Children’s Behaviour.pdf