Nurseries and suppliers gather in Harrogate for the 10th Nursery World Exchange event
Catherine Gaunt
Tuesday, June 27, 2023
The role of nurturing care in early years practice was the focus of a keynote speech by Aaron Bradbury at the Nursery World Exchange event in Harrogate last week.
Bradbury, principal lecturer for early years and childhood, at Nottingham Trent University, spoke about his book co-authored with Ruth Swailes, Early Years today: Reframing Early Years Pedagogy, which explores concepts of theory and practice in the early years, drawing on the work of a range of researchers.
The research is growing that shows us that nurturing emotional relationships are the most primary function needed for both intellectual and social growth, he said.
Bradbury said that he had been inspired by pioneering research led by Dr Stephen Bavolek, who focuses on the importance of ‘nurturing care’.
He discussed what ‘nurturing care’ in the early years looked like, and said that practitioners should focus on nurturing and emotional help for children, rather than ‘catch-up’ and curriculum.
He explained that Bavolek’s concept of ‘Nurturing Care’ consists of five interrelated components:
- health
- nutrition
- safety
- early learning
- responsive care
Bradbury added, ‘We focus on curriculum, but we never focus on nurturing. He’s an American theorist looking at trauma. He puts the child at the centre and talks about nurturing care. We can take a lot out of his work, he talks very much about nurturing, and we have a part to play in that. He just made me realise why I get up in the morning, and the difference we can make for children. Nurturing relationships are fundamental.’
Commenting on Government plans to change staff to child ratios in early years settings he added, ‘We can’t give responsive care if ratios go sky high.’
The 10th Nursery World Exchange event took place at The Old Swan Hotel in Harrogate and brought together senior nursery leaders with top resources and equipment suppliers for a day of networking.
- Upcoming Nursery World Exchanges take place on 21 September in Cheltenham and 16 November in Southampton. If you’re interested in attending future events, contact the team at exchange@nurseryworld.co.uk or call 020 7501 6699.
