“Intelligence plus character—that is the goal of true education.” –Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Early childhood presents a crucial opportunity to establish protective factors and resilience. Consistence in child care is a key element in establishing resilience as it provides a stable and predictable environment. Having a consistent caregiver can provide emotional support and foster a sense of security and trust.
In early childhood, it is particularly important that children have the protections provided by attachment bonds with caregivers. Feeling loved, cared for, and supported by their caregivers has a significant positive influence on emotional health. The ability to form a positive relationship with an adult figure outside of the immediate family has been shown to predict increased resilience.
Resiliency in children can result in reduced behavioral issues or delinquency in and out of a school setting and support positive mental health. Furthermore, social support from adults outside the family helps offset the negative impacts of risk factors beyond childhood, into adolescence and adulthood.
Key aspects in a consistent caregiver at home or in a caregiver setting that contribute to resilience in children include:
- Stable relationships
- Predictable routines
- Understanding individual needs
- Positive interactions
- Continuity of learning
- Communication with parents
These traits when found in a caregiver, and paired with consistency in the caregiver of choice establish characteristics that support resiliency such as:
- Social skills development
- Positive self-image
- Stress management skills
- Emotional literacy
The important work of raising children is shared between parents and child care providers. As a child care provider of any kind, know that you are impacting the future.
“Children are the living messages we send to a time we will not see.” —Neil Postman.
Information supporting this article has been found at:
Resilience in Development: The Importance of Early Childhood