Responsive caregiving is individualized, nurturing, respectful, and a foundation of quality infant and toddler care. It refers to a parenting, caregiving, and teaching practice where the adult notices, understands, and responds to an infant or toddler’s cues. When caregivers respond to cues in ways that ensure a child's needs are met, infants and toddlers feel safe, heard, and valued.
Learn about the importance of supporting early bonding and attachment child-parent relationships and child-caregiver relationships. Explore strategies useful for Head Start center-based, home-based, and family child care program options.