29/01/2026
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Most of us genuinely believe connection is a priority. We talk about it. We value it. We want it to be central. Yet in practice, it often takes a backseat.
This isn’t because educators or caregivers don’t care. It’s because the demands are heavy. Low ratios. Tight schedules. Administrative pressure. Curriculum pacing guides. Limited training in developmentally appropriate practice. All of this quietly shifts the focus away from relationships and toward compliance, productivity, and getting through the day.
And it doesn’t show up in big dramatic ways. It shows up in small moments, hundreds of times a day.
When a child is crying at drop-off and we say “you’re okay” instead of slowing down and helping them feel safe.
When two children struggle to share materials and we remove the object to avoid conflict instead of supporting problem-solving, turn-taking, empathy, and regulation.
When children are showing us they need to move, stretch, or release energy, but we push through a lesson anyway because sitting still feels more efficient.
It also shows up when we rush transitions instead of allowing space for connection.
When we focus more on correcting behavior than understanding what a child is communicating.
Social-emotional learning cannot be reduced to a planned lesson or a scheduled block of time. It happens constantly. All day. Every day. In routines, in play, in conflict, & in transitions. It lives in how we respond, not just what we "teach."
Connection also requires us to regulate ourselves before expecting children to regulate. Young children depend on co-regulation. They borrow our calm, our tone, our pacing, and our presence to learn how to manage their own emotions and bodies. When expectations around activities, transitions, or “what’s next” take priority, children’s emotional well-being is often the first thing pushed aside.
And it’s worth remembering this: connection leads to cooperation. When children feel safe, seen, and supported, they are more willing to engage, listen, problem-solve, and work with others. You too will be better off in both the short & long term when connection comes first.
The children need and deserve it. And so do you. ❤
