Everyday interactions between educators and children shape how children feel, learn, and grow. The way educators respond in these moments helps create environments where children are safe, understood, and engaged.
As our
Statement of Shared Commitment says, every interaction counts.
The importance of these relationships featured in our 2022 regulatory priority video—positive interactions with children—where 1 service highlighted how they role model positive interactions and use their relationships with children to help guide their behaviour.
We have now partnered with Autism Queensland to create 3 new videos to extend on these messages, in support of our
child safety regulatory priority. These videos provide practical strategies that educators can use daily to develop connections with children, guide children's behaviour, and regulate their own behaviour effectively to support positive outcomes for both the child and educator.
Connecting with children
Connecting with children video.
This video explores the concept of connection before correction—connecting with a child before guiding their behaviour. It highlights the power of connecting with children in individual micro moments, such as greeting a child or join them to look at a butterfly, and through routines such as singing songs with a whole group. These frequent interactions are significant for a child, as they build connection and allow the child to feel safe and valued.
Guiding children's behaviour
Guiding children's behaviour video.
Big emotions and unsafe behaviours are part of every day in early childhood settings, from babies through to school age children. This video focuses on co-regulation and spotlights the steps educators can take to guide children's behaviour—create safety for everyone, support them through their regulation cycle, rebuild the connection, then problem-solve. When educators use empathy and understanding, they can turn stressful moments into positive learning experiences.
Educator self-regulation strategies
Educator self-regulation strategies video.
Managing stress is essential for creating calm, positive, and safe environments. This video shares practical techniques educators can use to stay regulated, such as taking short breaks, deep breaths, and working as a team to support each other. When educators respond rather than react to children, every interaction becomes an opportunity for connection.
Use these videos to critically reflect on your current practices to ensure you're building strong connections with children and guiding their behaviour in positive ways. Remember—every interaction counts.
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