Features

Positive Relationships: Behaviour - Sorry?

Until small children can feel empathy, getting them to say 'sorry' to others is unrealistic, says Sue Chambers.

A lot of my colleagues - and parents at my nursery - insist on children saying 'sorry' when they have done anything 'wrong'. Some children are quick to fall into the routine of saying what is expected of them, but those that are reluctant or bewildered are asked repeatedly until they 'apologise'. To me it feels wrong but am I right to feel like that? How old are children when they begin to understand 'sorry'? And what is best practice before and after children are of an age to understand what an apology really means?'

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

Nursery Practitioner

Cambridge, Cambridgeshire

Executive Director

Remote - will be required to attend Leicester HQ weekly

Level 3 Nursery Practitioner

Thames Ditton, Surrey