While such close attachments to caregivers and child care settings may make some parents initially uneasy, these bonds are an important part of children's development and learning. Working together, parents and caregivers can ensure that children see their educational settings as safe places where adults other than their parents support and care for them. Caregivers with a strong knowledge of child development recognize how important it is for children to have a sense of belonging, being loved, and trust in their environments. Warm and caring relationships with adults provide children with the basis for all types of learning. For instance, studies show the presence of attentive caregivers encourages children to explore their worlds.
Responsive adults help children extend their learning and reach out to other children and adults.
Specific training in early childhood education is critical because even the most supportive caregivers may not fully understand children's needs at different stages of their development. Also, working with groups of young children is very different from relating to one's own child or neighbor's child. Caregivers who attend workshops, courses, and staff development programs are better able to create strong bonds with children. In addition, these caregivers are more sensitive and responsive to all children in their care. Because very young children have limited ability to communicate their wants and needs, it takes a skilled adult who knows the child well to recognize different signals and respond appropriately.