DOUBLE TAP TO ZOOM WITH PHONE OR TABLET HOW WHAT WE FEEL CREATES WHAT WE KNOW factor in development, but it is outside the scope of this book to exhaustively explore the many varied developmental nuances of children from different cultures. However, it is important to note that differences in how relation- ships develop in various cultures may influence the way children and their caregivers interact. Because our understanding of attachment comes from primarily western European cultural backgrounds, there may be cultural nuances that are lost, or worse, misinterpreted, about the quality of attach- ment relationships across cultures. Early care providers are facing unprece­ dented numbers of children from a variety of cultural backgrounds, each with its own differences and complexities. It is important to understand that the ways children express their attachments may vary greatly because of their own traditions and cultural experiences. Furthermore, those variations do not necessarily indicate poor attachment relationships. Taking the step to learn more about the children and families you work with is imperative in creating a positive and supportive care environment. It is necessary to always consider children’s culture, environment, family, and personal experiences when interpreting their behaviors. CONCLUSIONS Throughout the early years, children learn extensively about the world around them through their relationships with others. The quality and consis- tency of those relationships is one of the most important factors in children’s early lives. In short, relationships matter. They are the context in which other learning occurs. These early relationships with caregivers build important connections in the brain, facilitate the ability of young children to control their behaviors, and support children’s ongoing learning throughout their lives. LINGERING QUESTIONS ➤ Can a child be attached to more than one person? Yes! In fact, young children rely on having a few key primary attachment relationships with people around them. These may be parents, grandparents, or other care providers. If you’re spending a lot of time with a child as a care provider, COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL 23