Whether it’s a tearful goodbye at drop-off, a shy wave to a new friend, or the proud moment your child says “I did it!” - early childhood is full of big emotions.
At Milestones, we know these everyday moments are more than just milestones - they’re the building blocks of lifelong emotional wellbeing. That’s why supporting children’s mental health is woven into everything we do.
As we mark World Infant, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Day on 23 April, we want to shine a light on how quality child care - the kind where children feel safe, supported, and deeply known - plays a powerful role in nurturing emotional development from the very beginning.
Why Emotional Wellbeing in the Early Years Matters
The first five years of life are a critical time for brain development, especially when it comes to social and emotional skills. According to Harvard University’s Center on the Developing Child, early relationships and emotional experiences literally shape the brain’s architecture, forming the building blocks for future learning and mental health.
Children who develop strong emotional foundations are more likely to:
- Build positive relationships with peers and adults
- Cope with stress and change
- Communicate their needs clearly
- Show empathy and kindness
In fact, the Australian Early Development Census (AEDC) found that children who score highly in social and emotional development at age five are better prepared for school and ongoing academic success.
What Quality Child Care Looks Like
When families walk into a Milestones centre, they often comment on the warmth of the environment, the sense of calm, and the joy on children’s faces. That’s no accident - it’s the result of a team effort that goes far beyond a checklist.
High-quality child care isn’t just about having a great curriculum (although we have one of those too!). It’s about having:
- Educators who know each child deeply and respond to their individual needs
- Cooks who prepare nourishing meals that help children feel safe, supported, and at home
- Centre Managers and Assistant Centre Managers who lead with care and create a culture of connection and trust
- A focus on relationships, routines, and play as the foundation for learning
When children feel secure and supported by the adults around them, they are more confident to explore, try new things, and learn how to manage big feelings.
Everyday Moments That Support Emotional Growth
At Milestones, emotional development isn’t a separate lesson - it’s part of every moment in a child’s day. Whether it’s helping a toddler navigate separation anxiety at drop-off, or guiding preschoolers through a friendship wobbly, our educators are there with empathy, encouragement, and calm reassurance.
We support emotional growth by:
- Helping children identify and express their feelings
- Guiding them through friendship challenges and conflict
- Creating calm, predictable routines that reduce anxiety
- Using play-based learning to build confidence, resilience and empathy
- Encouraging children to take small risks and celebrate their efforts
We also support emotional wellbeing through our Positive Living Skills program, which gives children aged 3–5 practical tools to recognise emotions, use calming techniques like deep breathing, and build empathy - all in a way that feels fun, safe and age-appropriate.
"Big emotions are a normal part of growing up. Our job is to guide children through those moments with patience, not perfection—and help them feel seen, safe and supported every step of the way."
How Families Can Help at Home
We know that supporting a child’s mental health is a team effort. Here are a few ways you can nurture emotional wellbeing at home:
- Talk openly about feelings (yours and theirs!)
- Read stories that explore emotions and empathy
- Offer comfort and consistency during tough transitions
- Keep routines predictable and allow space for rest
- Chat with your child’s educators - they’re here to help and always happy to share strategies
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
This World Infant, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Day, we’re proud to be part of a national community of early childhood professionals who understand that every cuddle, every conversation, and every moment of play contributes to a child’s emotional wellbeing.
Whether your child is just starting out or preparing for school, our team is here to support their journey with heart, patience, and expertise.
Want to learn more about how we support emotional wellbeing at Milestones?
Explore our Lifelong Learning Curriculum or book a tour at your local centre to see what quality care looks and feels like.