An effective initial step in building a trusting relationship with a young child is to demonstrate listening and reflection.

An effective initial step in building a trusting relationship with a young child is to demonstrate listening and reflection.

• A. Make demands
• B. Show authority
• C. Demonstrate listening and reflection
• D. Ignore rapport building

Answer: (C)

Trust grows when you listen and reflect because it shows the child that their feelings are seen, heard, and valued. Active listening—giving full attention, bending to their level, and not interrupting—creates a safe space for the child to share. Reflection—paraphrasing what they said and naming the emotions—validates their experience and helps them understand and regulate their feelings. This builds rapport and a sense of safety, which makes further guidance or support more effective. Making demands or asserting authority can feel punitive or scary to a young child and undermine trust, while ignoring rapport building leaves the child uncertain about you and less willing to engage. So, demonstrating listening and reflection is the best initial step.

Trust grows when you listen and reflect because it shows the child that their feelings are seen, heard, and valued. Active listening—giving full attention, bending to their level, and not interrupting—creates a safe space for the child to share. Reflection—paraphrasing what they said and naming the emotions—validates their experience and helps them understand and regulate their feelings. This builds rapport and a sense of safety, which makes further guidance or support more effective. Making demands or asserting authority can feel punitive or scary to a young child and undermine trust, while ignoring rapport building leaves the child uncertain about you and less willing to engage. So, demonstrating listening and reflection is the best initial step.