Promoting Sensitive Interactions Series

Description

The everyday interactions educators have with children matter. The way we respond, listen, guide, communicate, and connect can influence how children experience safety, belonging, well-being, development, and learning. Throughout this two-part series, educators will explore what sensitive and intentional interactions look like in everyday practice and consider how relationships, reflective practice, emotional intelligence, communication, and our image of the child influence the way we engage with children. Through discussion, reflection, practical examples, and hands-on activities, participants will take a closer look at the small moments that shape children’s experiences. Educators will explore how their presence, tone, body language, language, and responses can support meaningful connection and participation, while also examining the personal triggers and barriers that can influence how they respond in challenging moments. The series encourages educators to recognize their existing strengths, reflect on opportunities for growth, and develop practical strategies to carry sensitive, responsive, and intentional interactions into their everyday practice.

Participants will:
Explore what sensitive interactions look and sound like in everyday practice.
Reflect on how relationships influence children’s sense of safety, belonging, and well-being.
Consider how their image of the child shapes the way they respond, guide, and interact.
Examine the role of presence, tone, body language, and intentionality.
Explore how emotional intelligence influences interactions with children.
Strengthen responsive communication and active listening skills.
Practice recognizing and responding to children’s feelings, thoughts, and perspectives.
Explore the use of “I Messages” as an alternative to language that may blame, shame, or discourage.
Reflect on personal triggers and barriers that can influence responses in the moment.
Consider how culture, values, and individual differences can shape communication and expectations.
Reflect on how everyday interactions support children as capable, active participants in their own learning. Identify strengths in current practice and opportunities for continued growth.
Develop practical strategies to carry sensitive, intentional interactions into everyday practice.