Relationship-based developmentally supportive approach to infant childcare practice

Caregivers' warm, sensitive, and attentive interactions with their children have been widely considered key indicators of infant-caregiver interaction quality in childcare contexts. The primary purpose of this study was to explore infant's daily experiences and the characteristics of relationship-based supportive care practices in a childcare setting. This research project is based upon videotaped and direct observations of infants and caregivers in a naturalistic environment. Approximately the first three months of childcare of the four targeted infants in the infant childcare context were video-recorded. Infant caregivers' consistent care and educational philosophies, dedication as well as congruent belief systems with other team members influenced the accuracy and consistency of caretaking behaviours and responsiveness to individual infant's needs.