Peer exclusion is a major concern for preschool children. In this episode we explore research findings on the regular instances of both exclusion and inclusion in a nursery setting. We discuss children’s natural, biological need for belonging and dependence on the adult, how resourceful children can be, children not merely accepting exclusionary situations, adult guidance rather than teaching, the adult not having 100% control and much more… To read and listen to the whole research series visit: https://thevoiceofearlychildhood.com/articles/sustainability/ Episode break down: 00:00 – Series re-cap 01:40 – Exclusion as a routine concern for preschoolers 04:40 – The natural need to feel included and belong 07:30 – Children’s resourcefulness 11:25 – The effects of exclusion on later life 15:40 – Children challenging exclusion 21:40 – We need to stop solving conflicts and problems for children 26:20 – To support children we need to truly know them 33:00 – Sociodramatic play as a powerful tool in exploring challenging issues 36:00 – The need for educator training on complex issues 41:46 – Recommendations for practice 44:40 – Using books to explore complex topics 53:57 – Are you speaking their language? 100 languages of children  59:54 – Imagine the brain like play-dough! 01:03:05 – The value for researchers in sharing their work For more episodes visit The Voice of Early Childhood website: https://www.thevoiceofearlychildhood.com