Children’s relationships shape the way they see the world and affect all areas of their development. Through relationships with parents, family members and carers, children learn about themselves and their world. That’s because relationships let children express themselves – a cry, a laugh, a question – and get something back – a cuddle, a smile, an answer. What children ‘get back’ gives them important information about what the world is like and how to act in the world – how to think, understand, communicate, behave, show emotions and develop social skills.