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“There are many occasions where I have challenged the assumption that the initial phase of a child’s orientation into a new program is about overcoming separation from their loved ones or caregivers,” writes Aimee Gelnaw in an article that forms the basis of an Out of the Box Training Kit. “I think what children must do in this early stage of establishing their place in early childhood programs is more accurately described as forming attachments. As they develop connections (‘attachments’) to caregivers within the early childhood environment, they become better able to separate from the family bonds that previously created the glue that held them together. Children become better able to transfer that dependency to a trusted caregiver as they find their way into the family of the classroom or center…

For children to form the attachment necessary to free them to explore the world of the center, they must feel that the center welcomes, includes, and celebrates their family. It is only in this context that they can realize their full potential. In order for a child to feel valued, included, respected, and welcomed, they must know that their family is. If the center does not include their families in both overt and covert ways, children get a subtle but clear message that their family somehow does not belong. This impacts their own sense of belonging.” Gelnaw goes on to offer a variety of strategies and actions that programs can take to make sure all kinds of families are visible and celebrated within their classrooms.

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