A Scoping Review of Relationship-based Training Programs for Early Childhood Educators.

Aim and Background: An increasing rise in childcare attendance has resulted in children spending additional time with non-parental caregivers, such as Early Childhood Educators (ECE’s). Strong relationships between children and ECE’s are important as these relationships impact on children’s development. Relationship-based training programs offered by occupational therapists, are one way of supporting educators with building and maintaining positive relationships with children in their care. This scoping review aimed to provide a summary of the features and outcomes of relationship-based training with ECE’s. Methods: After a systematic search and following PRISMA guidelines, a total of 26 studies were included. Results: A wide range of relationship-based training programs were described, with multiple components and group-based training, as well as individual consultation/coaching reported. All included studies reported that relationship-based training programs resulted in positive outcomes for children and/or educators. This review provides a foundation for designing relationship-based training programs for ECE’s.