Social development is viewed as an integral part of each child's development. Adults listen when children talk and talk with them often, in language they can understand. Children talk freely with each other and with adults. Children are nurtured and respected as individuals. Children are helped to deal with angry, frustrated and fearful feelings constructively.
Adults are gentle while being firm, consistent yet flexible in their guidance of children.
Upsets among children are viewed as opportunities to practice self-control and learning problem solving skills. Children are not punished for self-expression. Self-help skills such as dressing, toileting and washing are encouraged as children are ready. Transition times are pleasant and unrushed. Schedules are flexible and allow children to change activities at their own pace.