Attachment theory helps to explain the relationship

between a child and their primary caregiver(s).

The nature of this relationship directly influences how the child

develops throughout the course of their lifetime, both physically and mentally. As such, this relationship will affect the child’s capacity to make friends, to explore the world around them and to engage with learning.

Thrive uses attachment theory to help us understand a child’s

behaviour and what this tells us about their social and emotional development. By understanding what a child’s behaviour is communicating about their unmet social and emotional needs, those working with the child are then in a position to make a positive difference to their life. However, if adults don’t recognise what is behind a child’s behaviour, they will find it difficult to meet the child’s needs. The result for the child can be social disengagement, underachievement in education, exclusion and potential issues in

adult life.

The Thrive Approach draws on attachment theory to explore how healthy attachment relationships can be formed and how these can be used to achieve better outcomes for children and young people.

Research tells us that our brains prioritise attachment security over exploration, suggesting that a safe relationship is necessary before a child or young person will be ready to engage with learning.

The Thrive Approach helps adults to develop empathy and

compassion for those in their care, including through understanding the potential origins of their behaviour. As an attachment-aware approach, Thrive shows how behaviour can be positively improved, while giving children a sense of security and enabling them to build emotional resilience. Ultimately, this can lead to children and young people leading fuller, healthier lives and developing the capacity to thrive.