(Bowlby, J. (1980) Attachment and Loss: Volume 1. Attachment. Basic Books: New York.)
Circle of Security
“The Circle of Security is a visual map of attachment. The “father” of attachment theory, John Bowlby, said this about attachment: "Intimate attachments to other human beings are the hub around which a person's life revolves, not only as an infant or a toddler or a schoolchild but throughout adolescence and years of maturity as well, and on into old age. From these intimate attachments a person draws strength and enjoyment of life and, through what he contributes, gives strength and enjoyment to others. These are matters about which current science and traditional wisdom are at one."
As a parent, it is natural to want to do everything you can to help your child feel safe and secure. The Circle of Security is an attachment model of parenting that was developed by researchers and clinicians at the University of Washington and is based on the belief that all children have an inherent need for security and that a secure attachment with a caregiver is essential for healthy social and emotional development.
The Circle of Security model outlines four key areas of security that are important for young children:
Emotional availability:
Educators are emotionally present and responsive to the child’s needs and emotions Enjoy with Me! Delight in Me! Comfort me!
Predictability and consistency:
Educators provide a sense of stability and predictability for the child, through routines and expectations that are consistent and reliable. Stronger, Wiser and Kind.
Structuring and guiding:
Educators provide appropriate boundaries and structure for the child, helping children to feel safe and secure. Watch over Me! Protect Me!
Respect for the child’s autonomy:
Educators who respect children’s independence and encourage autonomy while also providing appropriate guidance and support. Secure Base! Safe Haven! Support my Exploration!
Sprouts Early Learning, educators use the Circle of Security model to help children feel safe and secure. Responding to a child's cries or needs in a timely and compassionate manner Educators provide predictability and consistency through routines and expectations that are consistent and reliable. Circle of Security provides appropriate structure and guidance through boundaries and limits and further involves respecting the child's autonomy and encouraging their independence while also providing appropriate guidance and support.
Using the Circle of Security model, Sprouts Early Learning educators help children feel safe and secure, which is essential for healthy social and emotional development. This has a positive impact on children's overall wellbeing and success in the early childhood setting.
