Nursery World - Keys to respect in the nursery

Few nurseries could offer the exceptional support that Hillfields Early Years Centre gives its families, but most could start to develop the type of 'key person' system described in People Under Three by Elinor Goldschmied and Sonia Jackson (Routledge, 16.99). As a starting point, staff could think about how children and staff feel when they are in a nursery. Children

Children

Observe a two-year-old in your setting for a sustained period of time. How do adults and the child relate to each other? Focus on:

* Separation from the parent. It is important that children's feelings are respected, and that adults comfort them sensitively at this stressful time. Adults can affirm children's feelings by allowing them to cry and express sadness about the parting, instead of using diversionary tactics. Elinor Goldschmied suggests that 'partings should not take place in the busy middle of the room. Make sure there are two adult-sized chairs at hand. The parent sits down and as the child starts to calm, says clearly what is going to happen and hands the child over. It may be painful, but the process should at least feel dignified.'

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included