In this episode, we explore Primary Educator Relationships, through the lens of respectful relationships. For infants and toddlers, Primary Educator Relationships are not about structure alone. They are about creating emotional safety through consistent, respectful and attuned relationships. We unpack why the birth to three-year age group is such a critical period, particularly during the first 1000 days. During this time of rapid brain development, children are learning how to feel safe, how to trust and how to be in relationships. Through everyday interactions, infants and toddlers form their earliest understandings of whether adults are dependable and whether the world is a safe place to explore. We discuss what Primary Educator Relationships look like in practice for infants and toddlers, as well as preschoolers in more detail. This discussion includes the exploration of the benefits to small, consistent grouping that allows for deeper knowing and understanding of children’s cues, their rhythms, communication and individual preferences. This intentional consistency helps to create predictability, safety and security, much like in the home environment. Care moments, such as nappy changes, bottle feeds, meals, rest times, and transitions, are explored as deeply relational spaces where trust, communication and learning are built. These moments are not interruptions to learning; they are what make up the daily curriculum. We also address an important distinction: Primary Educator Relationships are about security, not exclusivity. Children are supported by a primary attachment within a strong network of secondary relationships, highlighting teamwork and consistency across the whole team being essential. Finally, we highlight families as central partners. When families feel safe, informed and trusting, children do too, and that’s where learning begins. Being a primary educator is more than a role. It’s an attitude of presence, attunement, and deep respect which shape how children see themselves and the world from the very beginning. Recommended audience: All educators in EEC and OSHC at any stage of their professional career. Host: Michelle Richardson Guests: Belinda Rouhan, Fiona Veld-Brown & Nicole Tytherleigh Links: Gowrie NSW Education Hub Professional Learning Calendar 2026 Our Podcast Website Subscribe: Newsletter Get in Touch! Instagram: @GowrieNSW.EducationHub Facebook: Gowrie NSW Education Hub
