What is attachement?
Attachment is one of the most important building blocks in a child’s life. Simply put, attachment is the deep, emotional bond that develops between a child and their primary caregivers, usually parents and close family members. This bond forms the foundation for a child’s sense of safety, trust, and confidence in the world.
According to John Bowlby’s groundbreaking Attachment Theory, the first year of a child’s life is critical. During this time, babies learn who they can rely on to meet their needs and keep them safe. This early connection shapes how children feel about themselves and others for the rest of their lives.
Why Is Attachment So Important?
When attachment develops securely, children feel safe to explore, learn, and grow. They know that their caregiver is a secure base to return to when things feel overwhelming. Secure attachment supports emotional health and helps children build strong relationships later on. It influences their ability to manage feelings, communicate effectively, and trust others.
But what happens when attachment doesn’t develop well? Children may struggle with anxiety, have difficulties managing emotions, or find it hard to form healthy relationships. They might act out or withdraw because their early emotional needs weren’t fully met. This can affect their social skills, learning, and overall wellbeing.
How Can Parents Support Secure Attachment?
The good news? Parents and carers play a powerful role in nurturing secure attachment.
Here are 8 ways parents can support this vital bond:
1. Respond consistently to your child’s needs — timely comfort builds trust.
2. Hold and cuddle your child often — physical closeness means security.
3. Make eye contact and smile — this builds connection and communication.
4. Talk and sing to your child — your voice is a calming anchor.
5. Be sensitive to cues — notice when your child is tired, hungry, or upset.
6. Create routines — predictability helps children feel safe.
7. Play together — play builds joy, trust, and understanding.
8. Be patient and calm — your emotional presence soothes and reassures.
Supporting Attachment as Early Years Practitioners
Early years practitioners also have a crucial role in supporting attachment and emotional wellbeing.
Here are 8 ways they can help:
1. Build trusting relationships through consistent, warm interactions.
2. Observe children carefully to understand their needs and emotions.
3. Offer comfort and reassurance when children feel upset or anxious.
4. Create a safe, predictable environment with clear routines.
5. Encourage language and expression to help children communicate feelings.
6. Support play as a way to build relationships and emotional skills.
7. Work closely with families to maintain consistency in care.
8. Model calm, respectful behavior to guide children’s emotional responses.
Attachment is the emotional glue that holds the child-caregiver relationship together. It shapes a child’s emotional health, social skills, and ability to form lasting relationships. The first year is a vital window for this connection, laying the foundation for a lifetime of wellbeing.
By understanding attachment and using simple, loving strategies, parents and early years professionals can create safe, supportive spaces where children thrive confident, resilient, and ready to explore the world with curiosity and joy.