As children enter formal school settings, either in preschool
or kindergarten, relationships with teachers provide the
foundation for successful adaptation to the social and academic
environment. From the first day of school, young children
must rely on teachers to provide them with the
understanding and support that will allow them to get the
most out of their daily interactions in the classroom. Children
who form close relationships with teachers enjoy school more
and get along better with peers. Positive relationships with
teachers can also serve as a secure base for young children; they
are better able to play and work on their own because they
know that if things get difficult or if they are upset, they can count on their teacher to recognize and respond to these
problems.