Active Supervision: Fostering Joy, Safety, and Connection in Early Childhood

As early childhood educators, we often find ourselves juggling multiple tasks and responsibilities throughout the day. In the midst of this busyness, it’s easy to fall into autopilot, going through the motions without truly engaging with the children in our care. 

One of the core aspects of our role, and one which is often on autopilot is supervision – but what if we could transform our approach to supervision from a mindless task to a mindful practice? 

What if we used 2025 as a reset, and instead took on an approach which moves supervision from a mindless ‘have to’ into a more mindful space? What if supervision could become a tool for safety, joy, connection and personal growth? 

The Power of Active Supervision

Active supervision is more than just watching children; it’s about being fully present, making intentional decisions to keep children safe and engaging with them.

Here are some tips for moving supervision from passive to active: 

1. Start before the children arrive. Arrange the learning environment to maximise visibility. Position high-risk learning experiences in central or visible locations. Keep equipment and furniture away from perimeter fencing and gates. Complete daily checks to ensure learning environments are safe and well-maintained. 
2. Mindful positioning. Move and adjust your position as children explore different areas of the learning environment, making sure you face the majority of children. 
3. Scan and Count. Look and scan beyond your immediate surroundings, while remaining alert for potential hazards such as open doors, gates or children engaging in unsafe play. Always look for children when transitioning children between indoors and outdoors, and before closing sheds or storage rooms. Complete head counts before and after transitions.  
4. Children must remain in Sight or Sound. Stay attuned and respond to your environment’s sounds (or lack thereof). 
5. Knowing children. Educators who understand each child’s unique needs, strengths and challenges can intervene proactively and be alert to children needing their assistance. 
6. Active supervision relies on Teamwork and Communication. Inform colleagues when leaving an area or focusing your attention on a child or group of children. When information is shared, your colleagues can adjust their supervision practice. 

Beyond these practical aspects, active supervision offers us an opportunity to slow down, pay attention, and truly attune to children’s needs and what makes them happy.

From Mindless to Mindful

How often do we find ourselves going through the motions of supervision without really being present? Mindless supervision might keep children physically safe, but it misses out on the rich opportunities for learning, connection, and joy that come with mindful, active supervision.

When we practice mindful supervision, we’re not just watching for potential dangers. We’re observing children’s interactions, their problem-solving strategies, and their moments of discovery and delight. We’re ready to step in with a supportive word, a guiding hand, or simply a shared smile of acknowledgment.

The Joy of Attunement

Active supervision allows us to be attuned to children’s needs and emotions. This attunement is a powerful tool for building trust and creating a sense of safety. When children know that we are truly present and attentive, they feel secure enough to explore, take risks, and fully engage in their learning.

Ask yourself: How does it feel when you’re fully present with a child, sharing in their excitement over a discovery? How does it change your experience of your work when you slow down and truly observe the learning and growth happening around you?

Responsibility and Wellbeing

While active supervision is a responsibility, it’s also an opportunity for enhancing our well-being as educators. When we are fully present and engaged, we’re more likely to find joy and satisfaction in our work. We’re less likely to feel overwhelmed or burnt out because we’re connecting with the very reason we chose this profession – to nurture and support young children.

Consider: How might your work experience change if you approached supervision as an opportunity for connection rather than just a task to be completed?

Child Safety Through Connection

Active supervision plays a crucial role in child safety, not just through vigilance, but through connection. When children know you care and feel seen and understood, they’re more likely to trust you and come to you with concerns or problems. As educators, we know that emotional safety is just as important as physical safety in creating a nurturing environment for children.

Reflect: How might your relationships with the children in your care deepen if you approached supervision as an opportunity for connection?

Putting It Into Practice

As you go about your day, challenge yourself to be more mindful in your supervision:

• Can you take a moment to truly observe each child, noticing something new about their play or interactions?

• How can you position yourself to be more actively engaged with the children while still maintaining overall supervision?

• What opportunities can you find to turn routine supervision into moments of joyful connection?

Remember, active supervision isn’t just about keeping children safe – it’s about creating an environment where children and educators alike can thrive, learn, and find joy in each day.

How will you transform your approach to supervision today?