Here are some thoughtfully crafted critical reflection prompts to help you explore and strengthen relationships with children, aligned with Quality Area 5 of the NQS.
Reflecting on Responsive Interactions (QA 5.1.1)
- How do I adapt my tone, body language, and responses to suit each child’s cues and communication style?
- Can I recall a moment when a child’s sense of belonging visibly deepened due to a meaningful interaction?
- In what ways do I show genuine interest in children’s stories, questions, and ideas throughout the day?
Respecting Dignity and Rights (QA 5.1.2)
- How do I ensure that every child’s cultural identity and family values are acknowledged and celebrated?
- When resolving conflict or guiding behaviour, do I uphold each child’s dignity and emotional safety?
- How do I involve children in decisions that affect them, even in small ways?
Supporting Peer Relationships (QA 5.2.1)
- What strategies do I use to help children build friendships and navigate social challenges?
- How do I model empathy, turn-taking, and respectful communication during group play?
- Are there moments when I’ve seen children support one another in ways that surprised or inspired me?
Continuous Improvement
- What feedback have I received (from children, families, or colleagues) that has shaped how I build relationships?
- How do I document and reflect on interactions that went well—or didn’t—and what do I learn from them?
- Are there patterns in my practice that I could shift to better support secure, respectful relationships?
Building Trust and Emotional Safety
- How do I respond when a child seeks comfort, and what does that say about the trust we’ve built?
- Are there children who seem less connected to educators? What might be influencing that, and how can I shift it?
- How do I balance consistency with flexibility to meet individual emotional needs?
Understanding Children’s Perspectives
- How often do I pause to consider how a child might be experiencing a situation—from their developmental lens?
- What assumptions do I make about children’s behaviour, and how might those assumptions affect my responses?
- How do I invite children to express their feelings, preferences, or discomforts in ways that feel safe and empowering?
Communication and Connection
- In what ways do I use language to uplift, encourage, and validate children’s identities?
- How do I ensure that quieter or non-verbal children are equally heard and understood?
- What role does humour, storytelling, or shared rituals play in strengthening my relationships with children?
Equity and Inclusion
- How do I ensure that my interactions reflect each child’s cultural identity, family structure, and lived experience?
- Are there unconscious biases that might be shaping how I engage with certain children?
- How do I support children in recognising and respecting differences among their peers?
Moments That Matter
- What was a recent moment of connection with a child that stayed with me—and why?
- Have I ever unintentionally dismissed a child’s idea or feeling? How did I respond afterward?
- When have I seen a child’s confidence grow as a result of our relationship?
Self-Awareness and Bias
- How do my own childhood experiences shape the way I relate to children today?
- Are there children I find easier or harder to connect with? What might that reveal about my own biases or triggers?
- How do I ensure I’m not projecting adult expectations onto children’s behaviour?
Intentional Practice
- How do I use transitions (e.g., arrival, mealtimes, rest) as opportunities to build connection?
- What small rituals or routines help children feel seen and valued each day?
- How do I intentionally slow down to be fully present with children, even during busy moments?
Empowerment and Voice
- How do I support children in advocating for themselves and others?
- In what ways do I co-construct learning experiences with children based on their interests and ideas?
- How do I respond when children challenge rules or express disagreement?
Learning from Children
- What have children taught me recently about patience, curiosity, or resilience?
- How do I show children that their perspectives shape my thinking and practice?
- When was the last time I changed my approach because of something a child said or did?
Further Reading
Forming Relationships With Children In Childcare
Strategies To Build Relationships With Children
How To Achieve Quality Area 5
Attachment Theory—Importance Of Relationships Between Children
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