Early childhood educators have a special role to play in supporting children as they create meaningful friendships. We can show children how to make the type of friends who will accept us for who we are.

September 30 marks the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation. It is a time for self-reflection and a time to look back on the tragic role that residential schools have played in the history of this country and the lasting effects they have had on First Nations people and culture.

Early childhood educators can help children build social-emotional skills many ways. We can help them practice mindfulness. We can help children slow down, and notice what they see, hear and feel. Spending time outdoors is a great way to use mindfulness skills. 

As early childhood educators, we are all leaders. We are not only leaders to the children in our care – we also provide leadership and support to colleagues, families, and our communities.

Our role as early childhood educators is to create relationship-driven, responsive, inclusive and thoughtful environments in which each child can thrive.