Creating Pre-School Classrooms Where Students Feel Safe to Learn
My child is shy to ask for anything, and I realised that the teacher at his previous school was not welcoming or friendly to the children.
Victoria Mutema
HOD/Reception Teacher
How will you help my child gain his confidence back?" This is the most asked question by parents.
As a parent, there is nothing more reassuring than knowing your child feels safe, happy, and valued at school. When a child has had a negative classroom experience, it is natural to worry about whether they will trust another teacher or feel confident enough to participate again.
The encouraging news is that children are incredibly resilient. With patience, kindness, and the right support, confidence can be rebuilt.
At Gaborone International Pre-School, we believe that learning begins with emotional safety. Before children can confidently ask questions, explore new ideas, or make friends, they need to know that they are in a place where they are respected, accepted, and cared for.
Creating this sense of safety starts with relationships. Every child deserves to walk into a classroom where they are greeted warmly, their feelings are acknowledged, and their individuality is celebrated. At GIS Pre-School, we use the Reggio Emilia Approach, which is child-centered. We believe that children do well when their interests are valued. As you enter our school in the morning, you will be warmly welcomed by our teachers, who are ready to greet each child with personalized greetings, such as hugs, high-fives, or even dance moves. Additionally, each classroom proudly displays photos of the children, creating a vibrant and inviting atmosphere that fosters a sense of community.
We also recognise that confidence looks different for every child. Some children are eager to raise their hands, while others need time to observe before joining in. At GIS Pre-School, we provide opportunities for children to choose what they want to learn through creating different provocations that allow children to discover their own learning. Supportive learning environments are about much more than academic instruction. Our teachers regularly remind
learners that mistakes are not failures—they are an important part of learning. This simple message helps children replace fear with curiosity and gradually builds resilience and self-belief. Through circle time, partner activities, imaginative play, storytelling, and hands-on investigations, children learn to communicate, solve problems together, and support one another. We also know that rebuilding confidence is most successful when schools and families work together. Regular communication between teachers and parents allows us to celebrate progress, understand each child's needs, and provide consistent encouragement both at school and at home.
Parents can reinforce emotional safety by creating opportunities for open conversations after school.
Instead of asking only,
- "What did you learn today?"
Consider asking:
- "What made you feel happy today?"
- "What was something you were proud of?"
- "Did you try something that felt difficult?"
These questions encourage children to reflect on their emotions and recognise their own growth, helping them develop confidence one day at a time.
When children know they are accepted, respected, and encouraged, they begin to take healthy risks, build positive relationships, and discover the joy of learning.
A child's confidence grows in environments where they feel emotionally safe, supported, and genuinely cared for. At GIS Pre-School, we are committed to creating classrooms where every learner feels they belong. By working together as parents and educators, we can help children overcome past experiences, build resilience, and develop the confidence they need to thrive—not only in school, but in life.
