Children's needs at different stages in life
Toddler
My brain is very active, but it still can't work on its own. It needs to be linked to an adult’s brain – like yours!
Adults can manage their thoughts, feelings and behaviour. But my brain can't do this yet. I need you to respond to me and show me so that I can learn how to do this for myself.
When you hold me, or lift me on your knee, or hold my hand, I feel safe and protected. This helps my brain and body to settle and be calmed. If you get stressed I need you to relax: that helps me to stop being stressed and to relax.
My brain is very active so I can find things confusing. I often feel frustrated! I still can't manage stress by myself – I need you to hug me and soothe me.
Because I love and trust you, the more I relax with you, the more my brain starts to sort out how I can do that all by myself.
Playing helps me to make sense of the world.
Sometimes I want to play on my own. I can find out how things work and fit together. I also copy what you do and begin to find out what it feels like to be a person who can do things.
I also like it when you play with me. I watch you, listen to you and learn from you all the time.
Helping children to feel safe and connected to adults they trust.
How we help children to deal with bad and scary experiences.
Giving children the skills to be able to cope in the wider world.
