Nurturing Attachments Therapeutic Parenting Training Programme (18 Weeks)

Launching exclusively in January 2026!

Attachment Theory and Its Importance in Foster Care

Attachment theory emphasises how early relationships shape a child’s development, particularly their capacity to form healthy relationships. For children in foster or adoptive care, early experiences of trauma, neglect, and separation from their biological families can impact their ability to bond with new caregivers. Understanding attachment theory helps foster carers interpret and address the effects of early trauma on a child's behaviour and relationships.

Foster carers play a vital role in the healing and developmental process for children who have experienced disrupted relationships. From my experience with looked-after children and foster carers, it’s clear that carers often reflect the emotional impact of their relationship with the children, experiencing feelings like insecurity or disappointment. These feelings can mirror the emotional states of the children in their care. Supporting foster carers in this emotional work is crucial for fostering positive outcomes for both the child and the carer.

One approach that has been particularly helpful is PACE (Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity, Empathy), developed by Dan Hughes. Initially a therapeutic tool for children with attachment difficulties, PACE helps foster carers remain emotionally available and engaged with children, responding to their needs in a sensitive and attuned way. When used consistently, PACE helps children feel seen and understood, fostering emotional regulation and improved attachment.

To fully embed this approach, foster parents benefit from regular supervision and consultation. Additionally, attending programmes like the 18-week Nurturing Attachments Training Programme for parenting children with complex trauma helps foster parents gain a deeper understanding of their child's behaviour and foster healthier relationships.

It’s important to note that while approaches like PACE are effective, they are not a ‘fix-all’ solution. Some children may require specialised interventions like CBT, family therapy, or play therapy. However, understanding trauma and attachment theory should be a baseline for all foster parents and staff, enabling them to provide the foundational support children need.

Nurturing Attachments Training Programme (NATP)

The NATP is designed to support foster parents in understanding the impact of trauma and attachment difficulties on a child’s development. Based on Attachment Theory and the House Model of Parenting, the programme helps foster parents match their parenting approaches to the emotional needs of the children.

This programme provides a coherent approach to therapeutic parenting that nurtures attachment security, emotional resilience, and growth. Research suggests that children who have experienced trauma respond best to interventions that consider the neurobiological effects of trauma and emphasis the importance of healthy relationship experiences (Perry, 2006).

Programme Structure and Aims:

The training is divided into three modules, with six sessions per module:

1. Module 1 covers Attachment Theory, patterns of attachment, and an introduction to therapeutic parenting.
2. Module 2 introduces the House Model of Parenting, focusing on building secure bases for children and promoting emotional safety.
3. Module 3 builds on the previous modules, helping carers manage challenging behaviours while maintaining strong relationships.

The programme's overall aim is to provide support, increase understanding of children’s emotional and behavioural needs, and build the confidence and skills of foster parents.

Session Highlights:

• Module 1: Introduces Attachment Theory, including secure and insecure attachment patterns, and the impact of trauma on development.
• Module 2: Focuses on creating a secure base and fostering a positive family atmosphere through empathy and connection.
• Module 3: Offers guidance on managing challenging behaviours while maintaining a strong, supportive relationship with the child.

This structured approach provides foster parents with the tools to better understand and respond to the unique challenges of parenting children who have experienced trauma.

In summary, the NATP and PACE frameworks offer a foundation for therapeutic parenting. By incorporating these approaches into everyday care, foster carers can help children rebuild trust, emotional security, and resilience. However, it is essential to acknowledge that some children may require additional therapeutic interventions tailored to their specific needs.

To learn more about this program, please get in touch.