Behaviour and Positive Relationships 

Helping Children Learn, Grow and Belong 

At Alfreton Nursery School, we believe that behaviour is a form of communication. Young children are still learning how to understand their emotions, express their needs and build positive relationships with others. They need patient adults who can help them make sense of their feelings and guide them through life's early challenges. 

Our approach is based on nurturing relationships, emotional wellbeing and a strong sense of belonging. We know that children learn best when they feel safe, valued and understood. When children feel secure, they are more able to regulate their emotions, develop friendships and engage in learning. 

This reflects our whole-school commitment to wellbeing, inclusion and attachment-aware practice. 

Building Positive Relationships 

From the moment children join our nursery, we focus on creating warm, trusting relationships with them and their families. Through these relationships, children learn how to cooperate with others, develop empathy, solve problems and become increasingly independent. 

Our staff model kindness, respect and positive communication throughout the day. Children are encouraged to talk about their feelings, understand the feelings of others and develop the confidence to express themselves appropriately. These skills take time to develop and are carefully taught through play, stories, conversations and everyday interactions. 

Understanding Behaviour 

There are many reasons why a child may behave in a particular way. Young children can become overwhelmed when they are tired, anxious, frustrated or finding communication difficult. Sometimes challenging behaviour may be linked to a child's stage of development, while for others it may be connected to sensory needs, communication differences, additional needs or significant changes in their lives. 

Rather than focusing solely on the behaviour we see, we try to understand what the child may be communicating. Our aim is to help children develop the skills they need to manage situations more successfully in the future. 

We do not label children as "naughty" or "bad". Instead, we recognise that all children need support, guidance and understanding as they learn how to navigate the world around them. 

Supporting Emotional Development 

Learning to manage emotions is one of the most important parts of early childhood. Throughout the nursery day, children are supported to recognise and name their feelings, understand that all emotions are normal and begin to learn ways of coping when emotions become overwhelming. 

Staff help children develop resilience and confidence by supporting them through difficulties rather than removing all challenges. This helps children build the emotional foundations needed for future learning and relationships. 

An Inclusive Approach 

As an inclusive nursery, we recognise that some children may need additional support with emotional regulation, communication or social interaction. Our experienced team works closely with families and, where appropriate, other professionals to understand each child's individual needs. 

There is no single approach that works for every child. Strategies are adapted to reflect children's strengths, interests and developmental needs, ensuring that support is respectful, personalised and effective. Our commitment to inclusion means that every child is valued and supported to succeed. 

Working Together with Families 

Parents and carers know their children best, and strong partnerships between home and nursery are essential. We value open communication and believe that children make the greatest progress when adults work together consistently. 

When concerns arise, we will always take time to listen, share observations and work alongside families to identify approaches that support the child both at home and in nursery. Equally, we believe it is important to celebrate successes and recognise the many achievements children make as they grow in confidence and independence. 

Keeping Everyone Safe 

The safety and wellbeing of children is our highest priority. On very rare occasions, a child may become so distressed that there is a risk of harm to themselves or others. In these situations, staff may need to use reasonable and proportionate physical intervention to keep everyone safe. Any significant incident will be recorded and shared with parents or carers. 

Our Nursery Community 

At Alfreton Nursery School, we strive to create a calm, nurturing environment where every child feels that they belong. We believe that behaviour is best supported through positive relationships, clear boundaries, understanding and respect. 

By helping children to understand themselves and others, we lay the foundations for confidence, resilience, self-regulation and lifelong learning. 

We want every child to feel safe, valued and successful, and we work together with families to help them develop the emotional and social skills they need to thrive both now and in the future.