Abstract
At childcare and preschool, all children thrive within in a network of reflective adults and an emotional atmosphere of calmness and connection. This presentation opens with two stories that capture a moment in the day of two different children at preschool. Both stories set the scene for reflecting on the spaces that young might be children looking for to safeguard their right to learn, develop and grow well. From the stories, three spaces are imagined: a space that leaves room for a trusting relationship to build between educator, parent, and child across time; a space where the child gets to know and understand that they are worthy of being loved; and a space where they successfully participate in and enjoy a social life with peers. Research is presented into two relational transitions where room is made for educators to nurture these three spaces every day. The Negotiated Goodbye is led by educators at the start of the day when parents and infants say goodbye to each other, and the Launch to Explore transition is led by them in the immediate period after parents leave. Analysis of 14 filmed observations of relational transitions involving 14 pre-schoolers, and 7 educators, show how educators created Triangular interactions between educator, parent and child, and how they used Relational Language when speaking to the children. A case example will speak to the findings and give educators something new to look for in relational pedagogy. Overall, Triangular interactions build trusting relationships between educator, parent and child, which are complementary to the child-parent relationship. Relational language supports educators to stay with children's feelings and relationship needs. Being immersed in Relational Language helps children to make sense of their own goodbyes and to orient to peer relationships in their room to enter play successfully.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Publication status | Published - 06 Oct 2023 |
| Event | Early Childhood Australia National Conference 2023 - Adelaide Convention Centre, Adelaide, Australia Duration: 04 Oct 2023 → 07 Oct 2023 https://www.ecaconference.com.au/2023/ https://www.ecaconference.com.au/2023/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/07/2023-ECA-National-Conference-Program-at-a-glance.pdf (Program) |
Conference
| Conference | Early Childhood Australia National Conference 2023 |
|---|---|
| Abbreviated title | Kumarninthi—Becoming one: Old ways, new wisdom |
| Country/Territory | Australia |
| City | Adelaide |
| Period | 04/10/23 → 07/10/23 |
| Other | The Early Childhood Australia (ECA) National Conference is one of the most eagerly anticipated events among those who work with young children. Early childhood educators, teachers, service leaders and executives, as well as policy-makers, program administrators, academics, researchers and allied professionals from across Australia—and from even farther afield—come here to be inspired through shared ideas and experiences in an environment of collegiality and collaboration. Delegates are able to critically and constructively review their thoughts and actions, and also celebrate among peers the achievements attained and advancements made in improving outcomes for children, their families and those who work with them every day. The 2023 ECA National Conference and associated events provide an opportunity to renew acquaintances and build relationships with others in the sector. I look forward to warmly welcoming delegates to the 35th ECA National Conference, Kumarninthi—Becoming one: Old ways, new wisdom in Adelaide next October! |
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