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12  TOPIC 1 CREATING QUALITY EARLY LEARNING ENVIRONMENT
increase the risk of mental health difficulties in adolescence or adulthood. Mental health is related to our thoughts, feelings, behaviours and relationships with others. Supporting a childÊs best possible physical, cognitive, social and emotional development in early childhood environment lays a good foundation for their well-being and success in later life. It is a vital part of childrenÊs health and happiness and it can also affect childrenÊs quality of life and personal achievements.
Young children learn about the world around them through experience and their relationships with others. Over time, they develop self-concept, which is a sense of who they are and where they are within the family and community. A safe and supportive environment will help children to develop a positive and secure self-concept. It can be done by fostering in them a sense of inclusion and belonging. Children who feel safe will be able to take the risks necessary to explore and try new things. In other words, feeling safe makes learning possible for children. By helping children to feel safe, adults can prepare them to be confident, not only for now, but also in the future.
Research has shown that children who explore less and who grow up in less supportive environment have more difficulties in relationships and delays in learning. Research has found that children who have secure relationships in early childhood setting performed better on critical thinking tests through age 17. Meaningful relationships between children and adults in a secure environment increase the likelihood that children will feel comfortable sharing their safety concerns with others. Thus, creating a safe and caring environment is one of the most important goals that support a childÊs social and emotional development. Children have the freedom to pursue their daily activities without fear in a safe and secure environment. We know that learning is important, but nothing matters more than the safety and security of our children. Quality early childhood setting should offer children a stimulating, nurturing environment which should help prepare children to reach their full potential. Characteristics of safe and secure environments can be recognised in the following guidelines:
(a) Hire ample staff
Early childhood setting requires enough staff to supervise all children in the setting. Enough staff provides ample attention to the individual needs of children. It creates strong bonds and provides security to children. With ample staff, all children can be monitored at all times.
(b) Well-designed and well-maintained areas
Well-designed and maintained environment provides children with opportunities to challenge themselves and take risks without any serious injury. Safe indoor and outdoor areas should be free of hazards. Hazards
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