Understanding attachment theory can enhance flexible and responsive strategies to guide your practice with all children, says Anne O'Connor.

Q: How can an understanding of attachment theory help us to manage children's behaviour?

Many of the therapeutic strategies developed to help children with severe attachment issues are equally valuable to all children because of the nurturing approach that lies at the heart of them. Instead of making adaptations for specific children, think about how you could develop flexible, responsive practice that nurtures every child's emotional development and supports positive behaviours.

In the course of an average day, there will be times of possible stress for all children. When a child who is securely attached is feeling ill, or faced with a problem or worry, they know, from experience, that adults can be trusted to identify what is needed and do something about it.

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