Following on from World Mental Health Day last month, we are provided with a valuable opportunity to reflect on how we support emotional wellbeing in early years settings, for our youngest learners, colleagues and parents. The 2025 EYFS statutory framework places a strong emphasis on emotional development, self-regulation, and wellbeing, while the government’s Best Start in Life strategy reinforces the importance of early intervention and high-quality early years provision to improve life chances.
Why Emotional Wellbeing Matters in the Early Years
The early years are a critical period for brain development. Children’s experiences during this time shape their ability to:
- Form secure attachments
- Develop emotional resilience
- Build positive relationships
- Manage stress and change
Learning and Development Requirements
Providers must ensure that children are guided to develop positive relationships, emotional security, and resilience through warm, supportive interactions.
Best Start in Life Link
Improving child development outcomes by supporting emotional wellbeing in the early years is central to achieving the ambition that 75% of children reach a good level of development by age 5.
To effectively support emotional wellbeing, you can embed practical techniques into everyday routines and interactions.
Create a Safe and Predictable Environment
Why it matters
Children thrive in environments where they feel safe, valued, and know what to expect. Predictability reduces anxiety and supports emotional regulation.
Practical Implementation
- Visual Timetables and transition cues to support routine.
- Cosy corners with sensory materials for self-regulation.
- Consistent environments to reduce stress and support autonomy.
EYFS 2025 Link
Providers must ensure that children are cared for in a safe and secure environment that promotes emotional wellbeing and supports their ability to self-regulate.
Best Start in Life Link
High-quality early years environments are essential to supporting children’s emotional and cognitive development.
Teach Emotional Literacy
Why it matters
Children need the language and tools to express their feelings. Emotional literacy is foundational for empathy, conflict resolution, and mental health.
Practical Implementation
- Feelings boards, emotion coaching, and story-based discussions.
- Use of mirrors, puppets, and role play to explore emotions.
EYFS 2025 Link
Children should be supported to identify and express their feelings appropriately and begin to understand the feelings of others.
Best Start in Life Link
Supporting children’s communication and emotional development is a key priority for early years settings.
Build Strong Relationships
Why it matters
Secure attachments with adults are the cornerstone of emotional development.
Practical Implementation
- Key person approach, one-to-one time, and positive reinforcement.
- Use of family photos and home-setting links.
EYFS 2025 Link
Practitioners must form warm, supportive relationships with children to promote their emotional security and sense of belonging.
Best Start in Life Link
Strong relationships between children and caregivers are essential for healthy development.
Incorporate Mindfulness and Movement
Why it matters:
Mindfulness and physical activity help children manage stress and develop body awareness.
Practical Implementation:
- Breathing games, yoga, sensory play, and outdoor exploration.
EYFS 2025 Link:
Children should be supported to develop coordination, strength, and awareness of their bodies through movement and physical activity.
Best Start in Life Link
Physical activity and outdoor play are vital for children’s mental and physical health.
Support Families Too
Why it matters
Children’s emotional wellbeing is deeply influenced by their home environment.
Practical Implementation
- Parent workshops, home learning packs, and signposting to services.
EYFS 2025 Link
Providers must work in partnership with parents and carers to support children’s development and wellbeing.
Best Start in Life Link
Family Hubs will provide integrated support for parents, including parenting advice, emotional wellbeing, and early learning guidance.
Prioritise Staff Wellbeing
Why it matters
Emotionally attuned adults are better able to support children. Staff wellbeing directly impacts the quality of care and education.
Practical Implementation
- Wellbeing champions, reflective supervision, and staff support spaces.
EYFS 2025 Link
Leaders must ensure that staff are supported by creating supportive workplace environments and cultures and making wellbeing a priority.
Best Start in Life Link
Improving the quality of early years provision includes supporting the wellbeing and professional development of the workforce.