THRIVE IN ACTION

How to create a sense of belonging in the early years 

We’re connecting online between 4:00pm and 4:45pm BST on 12th May. Can’t join live? Sign up anyway and we’ll share the recording.

What is the event about?

Every child needs to feel that they belong – to know they are safe, seen, and significant. During Mental Health Awareness Week, join us as we explore how to create a genuine sense of belonging in early years settings and why this is crucial for mental wellbeing and healthy brain development. 

We’ll share practical strategies for building warm, trusting relationships, nurturing inclusive environments, and involving children and families in meaningful ways – all underpinned by the latest neuroscience and Thrive's relational approach. 

Whether you’re leading a nursery, supporting babies and toddlers as a key person, or working as part of a close-knit team, this session offers a reflective and practical space to deepen your approach and nurture a stronger sense of belonging for every child in your care. 

What you’ll take away: 

- Why a sense of belonging is so important and what it looks like in early years settings 

- The vital role of the key person in offering consistent, attuned relationships that ease separation anxiety and support emotional resilience 

- How to create inclusive, predictable spaces where children feel secure enough to express themselves and explore 

- Practical ways to listen to children’s voices and involve them in shaping their environment and routines

- Why staff belonging matters and how it helps create a nurturing culture where everyone feels valued 

SOB EY