For her research, ‘Unraveling forces at play; Investigating the influence of Dutch early childhood education and care on children’s socialemotional development’, Sluiter followed more than 200 children, with assessments at the ages of 2, 3 and 4. More than the quality or physical environment of childcare, a good relationship between the child and the caregiver has a positive influence on children’s well-being and social skills. As a result, they are better able to adapt when they start school and behave more socially competently. This contributes to a smooth transition to primary school.
According to Sluiter, childcare policy and practice should focus on a good, loving relationship between early childhood educators and children. This can be achieved through coaching educators and stability within the group, with as few staff changes as possible. For the quality of childcare, it is important that the relationship between the child and the early childhood educator is central.
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