1.1. Identify the different relationships children and young people may have

This guide will help you answer 1.1. Identify the different relationships children and young people may have.

Children and young people develop relationships in various settings. These relationships influence their emotional, social, and mental well-being. Understanding these relationships helps you support them effectively.

In this guide, we will look at the types of relationships children and young people may experience.

Family Relationships

Family relationships are among the first and most significant in a child or young person’s life. These may include:

• Parents or Primary Caregivers – This is usually the most important connection for young children. Parents provide love, security, and guidance. In cases where children are in care, foster carers or other guardians may fill this role.
• Siblings – Relationships with brothers and sisters can involve both conflict and support. Sibling bonds often shape a child’s experiences of sharing, conflict resolution, and companionship.
• Extended Family – Relationships such as those with grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins can provide additional support and a sense of belonging. These connections may also pass on cultural values and traditions.

Friendships

Friendships are key to a child or young person’s social development. These relationships may differ depending on the child’s age and life stage:

• Early Childhood – In this stage, friendships are based on shared activities and play. Children may refer to someone as their “friend” simply because they play together frequently.
• Primary School Years – As children grow, friendships become more meaningful and may be based on shared interests. These relationships help children learn about cooperation, trust, and empathy.
• Adolescence – Teenage friendships often involve deeper emotional bonds. They can provide a sense of identity, support, and independence.

Friendships are a vital way for children and young people to learn social skills. However, they may also face challenges like disagreements or feelings of exclusion, which can impact their confidence and happiness.

School Relationships

Many children and young people spend significant time in school, where they develop different types of relationships:

• Teachers and Support Staff – Positive relationships with adults at school, such as teachers, teaching assistants, and pastoral staff, create a safe and encouraging learning environment. These adults often act as role models.
• Classmates – Peer relationships in school involve working together, helping others, and socialising. These connections can help children develop teamwork and communication skills.
• Mentors or Tutors – For some, relationships with academic mentors or tutors provide additional structure and support. This can boost confidence and learning.

Community Relationships

Children and young people may form connections within their local community. These relationships may include:

• Neighbours – Interactions with people in their neighbourhood often allow children to feel part of a wider community.
• Activity Group Leaders – Leaders of clubs, sports teams, or interest groups play a significant role. They encourage skills like discipline, teamwork, and commitment.
• Faith Leaders or Religious Groups – In communities where faith is a key element, relationships with religious leaders and members of their congregation often have a strong influence. These relationships can guide moral and ethical understanding.

Professional Relationships

Some children and young people have contact with professionals outside of school. These can include:

• Healthcare Professionals – Nurses, doctors, dentists, counsellors, and therapists support their physical and emotional health.
• Social Workers – Some children may have support from social workers, particularly if there are safeguarding concerns or family challenges.
• Youth Workers – Youth workers help young people build confidence, develop life skills, and access resources.

Professional relationships are often based on trust, where the professional provides a safe space for children to share concerns or needs.

Digital Relationships

Technology is a major part of many children and young people’s lives. They may form relationships online through:

• Social Media Platforms – Platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, or TikTok allow young people to connect with peers and distant relatives.
• Gaming Communities – Online gaming allows for teamwork and interaction with others worldwide.
• Educational Tools – Some relationships are formed through educational platforms or group projects completed online.

While digital relationships can be positive, they can also carry risks such as cyberbullying or exposure to inappropriate content. It’s important to balance the benefits of these relationships with the need for safety.

Romantic Relationships

In adolescence, romantic relationships may become a key part of life. These relationships allow teenagers to explore intimacy, trust, and emotional connection. They play a significant role in developing self-esteem and understanding personal boundaries. However, it’s important for young people to learn about respect and healthy relationships to avoid harmful situations.

Relationships with Pets

Some children and young people form strong bonds with animals. Pets can provide:

• Companionship – For some, a family pet offers comfort and reduces feelings of loneliness.
• Responsibility – Care for pets teaches valuable life skills, like feeding, cleaning, and nurturing.

These relationships contribute to emotional development and empathy.

Cultural and Societal Relationships

In some cases, children and young people develop broader relationships based on their culture or society. This might include engagement with cultural events, traditions, or specific community groups. These relationships help strengthen identity and cultural pride.

Common Difficulties within Relationships

It’s common for relationships to involve challenges. For children and young people, these could include:

• Bullying – Negative peer relationships can lead to experiences of bullying, which affect confidence and self-esteem.
• Conflict – Arguments with friends, family, or peers are common. Learning to resolve conflicts helps build stronger relationships.
• Transitions – Changes such as moving school, parental separation, or entering care can affect a child’s ability to maintain relationships.
• Loss – Loss of a loved one or a pet can deeply impact how children and young people view relationships.

Why Healthy Relationships Matter

Healthy relationships give children and young people the foundation they need for future success. They teach essential skills such as communication, empathy, and resilience. These relationships also provide emotional and practical support when facing challenges.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the variety of relationships that children and young people may have helps you tailor your support to their specific needs. By recognising these connections, you can help foster an environment where they feel secure, valued, and supported. This approach promotes healthy development and positive outcomes.