ABSTRACT
The concept of resilience has been discussed extensively in research literature, both as something that children possess or demonstrate, and also as something that defines them. This chapter identifies and explores some of the influences on children's developing resilience in the early childhood years. Because early childhood educators work as part of a system that is affected by local, state, and federal values and mandates, it is interesting to consider resilience in an even broader context. The chapter contributes numerous factors of children's resilience and the same may be said of children's thinking. A child's resilience and overall development is also impacted by an environment that includes home and school. The chapter ends with encouraging children to develop comfort with exploring new situations through a different lens, and to practice feeling comfortable with the uncertainty that often precedes creative problem-solving.
