Purpose
The study investigates the relationship between toddlers' temperament and well-being in kindergartens in Norway. The research questions are: 1) Is there a connection between children's temperament and well-being in Norwegian kindergartens? 2) Does the quality of kindergarten processes (day-to-day practices and routines) affect the relationship between children's temperament and well-being in Norwegian kindergartens?
Result
The results show that toddlers' well-being in kindergarten is influenced by their temperament, especially how shy, emotional and social they are. The quality of the relationship between children and staff, as well as the amount of emotional support the child receives, also play an important role in well-being. This emphasises the importance of good relationships and support in kindergarten.
Design
The study collected data from 1561 children between zero and three years old from 185 kindergartens in September 2018. Kindergarten staff and parents completed electronic questionnaires about the child's well-being, temperament and family characteristics. The quality of teaching was assessed through questionnaires and external observations.
References
van Trijp, C. P., Lekhal, R., Drugli, M. B., Rydland, V., van Gils, S., Vermeer, H. J. & Buøen, E. S. (2021). "The Association Between Toddlers’ Temperament and Well-Being in Norwegian Early Childhood Education and Care, and the Moderating Effect of Center-Based Daycare Process Quality". Frontiers in Psychology, 12:763682.
Financed by
The Research Council of Norway