On Monday morning, two-year-old Hannah sits a little pale in the cloakroom. Her fingers fumble for the fabric bunny she brings every day. Only when educator Lena greets her with a familiar song in Hannah's family language do her little shoulders relax, and a timid smile appears on her face. What may seem small here is actually a real power boost for the child’s brain: these safe, recurring moments program the stress and soothing systems for resilience – the scientific term for this inner strength¹.
Why Resilience Begins in Early Childhood
Between birth and the third birthday, billions of synapses are formed. At the same time, the hormone cortisol reacts especially sensitively to stimuli; chronically elevated levels can later lead to anxiety or learning difficulties². On the other hand, studies show that reliable relationships and manageable challenges buffer cortisol levels and wire the stress system "pro-resilience"³.
The Four Roots of Resilience
Secure Attachment – At least one dependable caregiver provides support.
Self-Efficacy – Children are allowed to master small tasks, such as fastening their own bib.
Naming Emotions – “You’re angry, I’m holding you” translates body sensations into language.
Rituals & Predictability – Recurring routines reduce cortisol spikes⁴.
How the Nursery Nurtures Resilience
During morning circle time, caregivers consciously greet the children in their respective family languages. Between breakfast and free play, a picture schedule shows the next steps – so even the youngest know what comes next. When things get noisy, the group retreats to a "quiet nest": dimmed lighting, a soft noise rug, and tactile cushions create a sensory haven. All these details are part of many resilience programs, such as the Swiss PRiK concept, which strengthens teams, children, and parents together⁵.
Parents as Co-Gardeners
Parents can build on this at home: in the evening, each person shares "three happy moments of the day." Such reflections anchor positive experiences and show children that difficult moments pass⁶. UNICEF provides free cards and rituals in multiple languages to support this⁷.
Takeaway
Resilience doesn’t grow by itself. It develops when children experience reliable people, small successes, and space for their feelings. Every nursery can contribute daily – and every family too.
