Predictions for 2024

My predictions for the New Year include the following:

Children will continue to demonstrate a natural love of predictability, as they have always done. Did you know that a sense of security is strengthened from the knowledge that life is predictable? I like to think of three main areas in which this occurs in a child’s daily life. The first relates to routines and rituals. Yes, they require effort and planning, but are worth every moment. The second can be found in activities and events outside of those beloved rituals, where predictable outcomes can be anticipated with prior conversation on the part of the adult. Just be describing what will happen during an impending trip to a new place can be valuable strategy in enabling a child to feel more comfortable and relaxed. And of course, when our children are more comfortable and relaxed, so are we.

The third area is perhaps the most important of all. Children are seeking to trust predictable people. That’s us:) A child needs to be able to anticipate our behaviors, our energy and our words in order to feel safe, secure and supported. What a great goal for us educators, parents and caregivers in 2024. Let’s demonstrate more predictability in how we live and work alongside children. I predict that this could have a most beautiful, positive outcome.