Being purposeful and consistent in the way we create nurturing and responsive relationships with children is the foundation for Social Emotional Learning.  Think of making connections with children as ways of making deposits into their "emotional piggy bank". Playing, giving time and full attention, and showing warmth and affection are just a few ways adults can make "deposits". These idea sheets give parents and caregivers ideas about how we can provide positive encouragement and help fill up a child's "emotional piggy bank" every day. Research shows that providing positive encouragement is a powerful practice for helping children meet behavioral expectations both at home and in school.