When we meet those foundational needs through warm relationships, responsive care and consistent routines, we give children the emotional scaffolding they need to climb to higher levels of development – confidence, independence and creativity.
When a child is struggling emotionally, perhaps due to trauma, neglect, or simply not having their emotional needs met, they can find it harder to engage, connect and grow. Early intervention matters. The earlier we act, the greater the impact.
The role of the adult: a secure base
We are the emotional anchors in our children’s lives. Whether you’re a parent, a practitioner or both, your calm presence, warm voice and consistent routines provide the stability children need to thrive.
Here are some powerful ways we can support children’s mental well-being every day:
- Be responsive: Tune in to children’s cues and respond with empathy. A baby’s cry is their way of communicating. A toddler’s outburst is often frustration in disguise
- Name emotions: Help children identify and label what they’re feeling, e.g., “You’re feeling cross because it’s time to tidy up” or “That made you happy, didn’t it?”
- Model calm: Children learn emotional regulation by watching us. Taking deep breaths, using calm voices and showing how we handle big feelings is key
- Create predictable routines: Familiarity helps little ones feel safe. Knowing what comes next in the day supports a sense of security
- Play, play, play: Through play, children process emotions, explore relationships and develop resilience. Whether it’s peekaboo, small-world play or active role-play like our Littlemagictrain resources, every game is a chance to connect and grow
Connection is the cornerstone
Strong, secure relationships are the number one protective factor for children’s mental health. This doesn’t mean we have to be perfect (it’s not possible), but it means that we are there for our little ones, consistently and kindly, every day.
The “A Stitch in Time” report highlights the importance of connected communities. Children don’t develop in a vacuum. They need supportive families, practitioners and environments that understand and prioritise mental well-being.
When early years settings become places where children feel seen, heard and valued, we build confident learners – but, most importantly, emotionally-healthy humans.
Support for all
It is important to remember that children with additional needs may experience and express emotions differently. They might need extra time, different strategies or more tailored support to feel safe and understood.
But the principles remain the same – connection, consistency and compassion. Using movement, music, visual cues or sensory tools, like those I have built into my early years resources help children with additional needs feel included, capable and joyful in their emotional journeys.
The bigger picture
As the public health report reminds us, supporting mental well-being is not just the job of health professionals. It’s a shared responsibility that spans families, nurseries, childminders, schools and communities. It’s about investing and nurturing the early years with patience and a long-term view.
Imagine the ripple effect when a baby learns to trust, a toddler learns to name a feeling, and a pre-schooler learns to pause and breathe before reacting. Those aren’t small wins, they’re life-changing skills that can shape a child’s future.
Let’s keep talking
The more we talk about children’s mental health, the more we remove the stigma and raise awareness. It’s not about adding more to our plates – it’s about recognising that so much of what we already do is powerful, protective and priceless.
From a gentle cuddle after a tumble to a shared giggle during a magical journey to the moon, these moments matter more than we realise.
So, let’s keep weaving this golden thread of emotional well-being through everything we do. Because a stitch in time does save more than nine… it shapes lives.
References
Department for Education (n.d.). Mental health for early years children. Retrieved from Department for Education website
Oxfordshire County Council (2025). A Stitch in Time: supporting the mental well-being of young people today to improve their prospects for tomorrow. Retrieved from Oxfordshire County Council website
Maslow, A. H. (1943). A theory of human motivation. Psychological Review, 50(4), 370–396. https://doi.org/10.1037/h0054346
5 daily well-being boosters for little ones
- Morning moments of connection: Greet each child with warmth and eye contact. A smile, a cuddle, a “Good morning, I’m so happy to see you!” sets the emotional tone for the day
- Move, sing and play: Use movement and music to help children express and regulate emotions. A silly song or dancing freely as play is emotional gold
- Name the feeling: Support emotional literacy by helping children identify what they feel
- Pause and breathe: Take short mindfulness moments. A few deep breaths, watching leaves move, or listening to gentle sounds can calm busy little minds
- End the day with kindness: Reflect on one lovely thing that happened – something fun, kind or brave. “What made you smile today?” helps build a positive emotional memory bank
Remember, little ones don’t need perfection – they need connection. Your calm voice, kind eyes and nurturing presence are their greatest emotional anchors.