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Championing Early Childhood in Line with the “Shaping Us Framework” - a Babyzone Thought Piece

Championing Early Childhood in Line with the “Shaping Us Framework” - a Babyzone Thought Piece
February 2025

At Babyzone, we are proud to support the Shaping Us Framework, a transformative initiative launched by The Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood. This framework highlights the critical role of social and emotional development in shaping lifelong well-being.

Why the Shaping Us Framework Matters

Early childhood lays the foundation for future success. The framework identifies six core clusters of essential social and emotional skills:

  • Knowing Ourselves – Self-awareness and confidence.
  • Managing Emotions – Emotional regulation and resilience.
  • Focusing Our Thoughts – Problem-solving and adaptability.
  • Communicating with Others – Verbal and non-verbal skills.
  • Nurturing Relationships – Empathy and social connections.
  • Exploring the World – Curiosity, creativity, and joy.

This is a call to action for parents, educators, and communities to prioritise early childhood development.

Babyzone in Action: Bringing the Framework to Life

As a UK-based charity, Babyzone aligns closely with the Shaping Us Framework by providing holistic support for children and families. Operating across five OnSide Youth Zones, Babyzone creates a safe, inclusive space for early learning.

How Babyzone Supports Early Childhood Development 

     ✅ Play & Learning – Sensory play, storytelling, and group sessions help children build emotional and communication skills.
     ✅ Parental Support – Parents receive guidance to foster emotional intelligence at home.
     ✅ Community Hub – In partnership with over 50 organisations, Babyzone offers family support services, including health and parenting resources.
     ✅ Free & Accessible Spaces – Drop-in centres provide welcoming environments for social interaction and learning.

Empowering Parents and Caregivers

97% of parents attending Babyzone report a positive impact on their parenting experience. Through workshops and classes, Babyzone helps parents feel confident and supported in their child’s development.

The Shaping Us Framework and Babyzone share the same mission: ensuring every child gets the best start in life.

To explore the full insights, read our full report here.