Part of the EYFS Glossary
This article forms part of our EYFS Glossary of Early Years Education Terms, which explains key curriculum, pedagogy, and assessment language used in early years practice.
Attachment refers to the emotional bond that develops between a child and a familiar adult, which provides a sense of safety, security, and support for exploration and learning.
What is Attachment?
Attachment describes the emotional connection that develops between a child and a consistent, responsive adult. This bond helps children feel safe and supported, particularly in unfamiliar situations.
In early childhood, attachment relationships are often formed with parents, carers, and key people within early years settings. These relationships provide a foundation for children’s emotional wellbeing and development.
Attachment in Early Childhood
During the early years, children rely on familiar adults to meet their physical and emotional needs. Through consistent and responsive care, children begin to develop trust and a sense of security.
Attachment behaviours may include:
seeking comfort from a familiar adult
showing distress when separated
using an adult as a secure base for exploration
returning to an adult for reassurance
These behaviours reflect the child’s developing relationship with a trusted adult.
The Role of Attachment in Early Years Practice
In early years settings, practitioners support attachment by building positive, consistent relationships with children. The key person approach plays an important role in supporting attachment, as it provides children with a familiar adult who understands their needs.
Practitioners may support attachment by:
responding sensitively to children’s needs
providing consistent care and routines
building trusting relationships over time
supporting children during transitions and separation
These practices help children feel secure and supported within the setting.
Secure Attachment and Development
Secure attachment refers to a relationship in which a child feels confident that a familiar adult will respond to their needs. This sense of security supports children in exploring their environment and engaging in learning.
Secure attachment can support:
emotional wellbeing
confidence and independence
social relationships
engagement in learning
When children feel secure, they are more likely to explore, interact, and participate in experiences.
Supporting Attachment in Early Years Settings
Early years practitioners can support attachment through everyday interactions and care practices.
This may include:
establishing consistent routines
responding promptly to children’s needs
building familiarity and trust
supporting children during transitions
working in partnership with families
These approaches help create an environment where children feel safe and supported.
Common Questions About Attachment
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Attachment supports children’s emotional wellbeing and provides a foundation for learning, relationships, and development.
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A secure attachment is a relationship where a child feels safe, supported, and confident that their needs will be met by a familiar adult.
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Settings support attachment through consistent relationships, responsive care, and approaches such as the key person system.
Summary
Attachment refers to the emotional bond between a child and a familiar adult that provides a sense of safety and security. In early years settings, strong attachment relationships support children’s emotional wellbeing, confidence, and engagement in learning.
Related Glossary Terms
The following glossary entries are closely related to Attachment and provide additional context:
Further Guidance | Related Documents within our ‘EYFS Curriculum & Pedagogy’ suite:
Below you will find a selection of guidance documents from within our Little Owls Resources ‘Curriculum & Pedagogy’ area which explore this concept (& its age-specific application within EYFS settings) in greater depth.
[For additional documents please visit our support pathways: Baby | Toddler | Preschool | Reception | Mixed-Age]
Further Guidance | Related Resources within our ‘Printable Provision’ area:
Disclaimer
The information provided in this glossary is intended to support understanding of terminology commonly used within the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). It does not constitute official guidance and should not be considered a substitute for the EYFS Statutory Framework or other Department for Education publications.
Terminology and interpretations may vary between settings and professional contexts.