The Circle itself provides a visual map to support primary caregivers in identifying, acknowledging and responding to the emotional needs of young children. The CoS approach highlights the importance of secure attachment and the impact this can have on a young child’s overall development both now, and into their adult years.
Recently, at St Nicholas Early Education Raymond Terrace, Senior Pedagogical Coordinator Tegan led an introductory session on the Circle of Security model to support the team in further exploring how to embed the concepts of this model into their pedagogical practice. In unpacking the phases of attachment through engagement and reflection, educators can extend their outlook on children’s needs to become more emotionally available.
To do so, educators look at how they can foster protective, supportive and responsive relationships with children so that they can tailor their approach to nurture and grow each child’s sense of independence. Approaching care with this approach for children in their early years lays the foundation for children’s development in social competence, emotional regulation, and stress response functions.
These moments can take place when educators acknowledge micro-moments, such as when children explore, take risks, overcome barriers, try new things, and expand their social connections.
For educators, it highlights how important their roles are in collaborating with families to support each child through their early years.
The Circle of Security International explains:
How this benefits your child
You may be wondering how the Circle of Security (CoS) supports your child to grow and flourish. Here is how:
- Emotional security – children will recognise that they have a trusted adult to turn to for support and therefore, this boosts their confidence and sense of security.
- Social skills – in fostering strong attachments with their trusted adult, children feel confident in navigating social situations and forming friendships.
- Independence – when educators work to enhance the relationship and attachment, children are more likely to engage in learning and play throughout the day by knowing they have a secure base/safe haven to return to if needed. By slowing down and prioritising relationships, we often see children that are more confident and willing to explore, engage in learning experiences, and interact and acknowledge other children.
- Emotional regulation – trusted adults with knowledge of the framework support children to regulate their emotions effectively and form a strong understanding of their feelings, which is a crucial skill to develop a future of future emotional intelligence.
Using the CoS approach promotes stronger, more secure relationships, attachment and connection between your child and their educator. This is because the approach encourages reflection on personal beliefs and current practice relating to young children’s emotional needs. CoS also supports educators in gaining a deeper understanding of secure attachment. The impact this can have on a child’s development and highlights the incredibly important and impactful role educators play in their lives.
Resources
The following resources have been consulted in the development of this article:
