In early childhood, relationships are the foundation of healthy development. Decades of studies across psychology, neuroscience, and pediatrics show that early relationships shape emotional regulation and mental and behavioral health across a child’s lifetime. This research reflects what experts in early childhood education observe daily in practice: early caregiver-child bonds influence and impact the whole child.
Both parents and teachers play powerful roles in shaping how young children learn, grow, and engage with the world around them. Research from the American Academy of Pediatrics emphasizes the importance of safe, stable, and nurturing relationships between children and their caregivers. The AAP describes these as biological necessities, not extras. When children feel protected, consistently supported, and cared for with warmth and respect, they thrive.
Supporting a child’s development means supporting all the relationships around them. Family, teachers, and community partners make the biggest impact when they work as a connected team. Research makes it clear that healthy relationships are critical for a child’s development. When the adults in their lives work together with warmth and consistency, children get the strongest possible start.
In an article published by Harvard University Graduate School of Education, Junlei Li, senior lecturer in early childhood education explains, “To talk about early relational health is to include many human beings, the child, the parent, the extended family, and the extended circle of professionals … the human beings who are actually in relationship with each other.”
A parent or teacher’s everyday behaviors impact the children in their care greatly. A calming response to a crying toddler, a warm greeting as they arrive into the classroom, or noticing a child’s effort, all build secure relationships over time. These small moments accumulate for young minds and create big developmental gains that last for a child’s entire academic experience. Research shows that when children have warm, consistent and secure relationships with their preschool and kindergarten teachers, they are more likely to get along well with peers, build strong friendships, feel confident, and connected to their school community.
At Lincoln Park Preschool and Kindergarten, this research informs many aspects of the culture and community. Specifically, in hiring practices, ongoing professional development, and programs to support educators in establishing bonds with students and families. LPP takes a relational approach to education, building well-being for young learners that will impact them long after their preschool days come to an end.
LPP’s approach is three-fold, It begins with training and education. LPP educators have a master’s or bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or a related field, and continue their education as staff members. Additionally, LPP maintains classrooms that are consistently staffed, meaning students have a continuity of relationships and care every day, with students having the same educators for the duration of the school year. Lastly, the ratio of teachers to students in each classroom allows daily opportunities to establish and build trust, enjoy playing and engaging with each and every student, and time to learn, discover, and grow together as a group.
In creating and cultivating warm, responsive, and enriching relationships with children and parents, LPP educators create an optimal learning environment in their classrooms.
