How is attachment theory used in childcare?
Basically ‘attachment’ is a theory developed by psychologists to explain how a child interacts with the adults looking after him or her. Children whose caregivers respond sensitively to the child’s needs at times of distress and fear in infancy and early childhood develop secure attachments to their primary caregivers.
How is attachment theory used in early years?
Key messages Attachment theory stresses the importance of key people (attachment figures) throughout life who can: provide a secure base to explore from. provide a safe haven when danger threatens. help to organise the child’s emotional responses and give meaning to social experiences.
How do you explain attachment theory?
attachment theory, in developmental psychology, the theory that humans are born with a need to form a close emotional bond with a caregiver and that such a bond will develop during the first six months of a child’s life if the caregiver is appropriately responsive.
What are the key features of attachment theory?
There are four basic characteristics that basically give us a clear view of what attachment really is. They include a safe heaven, a secure base, proximity maintenance and separation distress. These four attributes are very evident in the relationship between a child and his caregiver.
How an early childhood educator can influence and help a child with attachment difficulties?
As an educator, you can support a family’s child attachment by helping them recognize they are the most important person to their child, encouraging them to understand the different signals children send and how to respond appropriately, and show parents how to get involved in their children’s play to build that …
How does poor attachment affect the developing child?
Children with poor attachments tend to display poor socioemotional affects, such as, poor social, coping, and problem solving skills, tantrums, clingy, withdrawn, or aggressive behaviors, etc. These negative effects, often impacts the child throughout their developmental years.
Why is attachment theory important in early childhood?
Attachment allows children the ‘secure base’ necessary to explore, learn and relate, and the wellbeing, motivation, and opportunity to do so. It is important for safety, stress regulation, adaptability, and resilience.