Episode 61 | Attachment Theory for Teachers and Caregivers

In this episode, Janet welcomes back Dr. John Stewart to explore how the principles of attachment theory extend beyond the home and into the classroom.

Dr. Stewart is a clinical psychologist specializing in attachment-focused treatment with children, adolescents, and families. He’s an Assistant Clinical Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the Tufts University School of Medicine and author of What Helps When Children and Families Struggle: An Attachment-Informed Guide for Families and Clinicians.

Building on their previous conversation about attachment-focused family therapy, this discussion looks at how teachers and caregivers can foster emotional safety, structure, and belonging for every child – especially those who struggle most. Dr. Stewart shares practical insights about the importance of predictability and “padded boundaries,” how joy and attunement shape a child’s sense of self, and why a teacher’s empathy can be just as healing as a therapist’s.

He also reflects on the shared responsibility between parents, teachers, and communities to help children feel both lovable and competent –two foundational experiences that support resilience and learning.

To learn more about Dr. Stewart and his work you can visit his ⁠⁠website⁠⁠.