Early years practitioners must take care to indulge and maintain the natural motivation that children show from babyhood, says Marion Dowling.

We hear a great deal today about the problem of affection in society. Many adults become disaffected with their partners, hence the high rate of family break-up. People in all walks of life grow to be dissatisfied with their jobs. Disaffected adolescents are accused of being demotivated towards study, lacking persistence and initiative. There is also a worrying trend of children being excluded from and truanting from primary schools.

Yet as the term 'disaffection' implies, at one time there was a positive attitude towards what is now being rejected. All partnerships start on an optimistic note; most people feel positive when starting a new job; at the start of their lives, children's brains are very alert and they are strongly disposed to find out about the world.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Unlimited access to news and opinion

  • Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here



Nursery World Jobs

Deputy Play Manager

Camden, Swiss Cottage, London (Greater)

Early Years Adviser

Sutton, London (Greater)

Nursery Manager

Norwich, Norfolk