The Research

Providers and caregivers who regularly care for very young children can have a positive impact on child development by forming continuous, strong attachments with children. When a child’s needs are met, the child forms a secure attachment—or “base”—that creates a foundation for healthy development in early childhood and beyond. Research has found that children with secure attachment relationships with their care providers are more likely to play, explore, and interact with adults in their child care setting. This relationship between children and their child care providers can complement the relationship between parents and young children and facilitate early learning and social development. A “continuity of care” approach can enhance the relationship between caregivers and young children by keeping young children within the same setting and with the same team of providers for an extended period, usually for the first three years of their lives. Children in both child care centers and family child care homes have been found to benefit when their providers are sensitive and responsive. All providers and caregivers can promote healthy child development by supporting attachment.