Positive relationships are extremely important if we want the child to thrive and grow within our setting. Being a positive role model is essential as the child needs to feel secure in our care. If a positive relationship has been formed, it makes it easier to work with the child to develop all kinds of areas. Such as speech and language, the more we interact with a child with positive gestures, comments and actions and body language, the more they will relax in our company and feel they can and want to talk to us, open up with feelings and requests and join in activities. This in turn makes for a happy child.
When children have strong relationships, they are less likely to show unwanted behaviour as we can recognise and meet their needs. Children’s language develops more quickly because they feel confident talking to us. Practitioners can plan more accurately as they understand children’s developmental needs and know their interests.
Practitioners are able to respond to children more effectively because they can recognise their expressions and emotions.
One of the most important ways to build a relationship is communications whether it is smiling and cooing to a new born baby or having a discussion with a young adult effective communication is a must. There are also other principles of building a relationship being consistent whether this is keeping rules and behaviour boundaries or making sure you do not have mood swings this helps the children and young adults know where they are and where their boundaries are. Being fair when you are sorting out conflicts and disagreements by listening to what they say and not jumping to conclusions. Showing respect and courtesy is another factor to have positive relationship. From early age we should be using markers of respect in English such as saying please and thank you. We should also speak to children and young people using voice tones that are warm and courteous.
It is hard work to build positive relationships with children. When working with children on daily basis it is easier to maintain good relationship just by following those few simple steps. By doing this we will enable the child to thrive and achieve positive outcomes in their lives.
1.3 Evaluate own effectiveness in building relationships with children or young people.
In my work setting I work with children from birth up to 19 years old. As every child is different, my approach must be different with all of them. As a support worker I am working with children and young people who often have learning difficulties or are coming from different ethnicity background etc .so it is essential to show understanding and respect to their needs and values. It is important to always listen to the child. Body language and facial expression also play important role when communicating with children. Simple smile on my face will send the signal to the child that I am enjoying spending time with him.
When I am talking with the child I always show them that I am interested into