The WholeChild Flow™ Theorists Cheat Sheet is a clear, educator-friendly guide that links major developmental theorists to everyday practice using the WholeChild Flow™ Bubble Framework. This resouce helps educators confidently embed theory in documentation, observations, programming, QIP evidence, and professional conversations.
Across four beautifully designed pages, you’ll find:
How to Apply Theory in Daily Practice
Clear explanations showing how to turn theory into practical strategies — grounded in children’s Bubbles, relationships, regulation and environments.(See page 1 for purpose and best-practice guidance. Theorists Cheat Sheet)
Key Theorists Explained Simply
Each theorist includes:
The central idea of their theory
How it connects to WholeChild Flow™
What it looks like in day-to-day practice
Included theorists (pages 1 & 3–4):
Bronfenbrenner – Ecological Systems Theory
Bowlby – Attachment Theory
Ainsworth – Attachment Patterns
Piaget – Cognitive Development / Learning Through Doing
Vygotsky – Social Constructivism / Co-Learning
Bandura – Social Learning Theory
Porges – Polyvagal Theory / Nervous System States
Siegel – Whole-Brain Child
Gopnik – Children as Scientists / Curiosity
Montessori & Steiner – Environment Shapes Behaviour / Holistic Approaches
Quick “What to Look For” Links
Each theory includes a simple WholeChild Flow™ interpretation — such as:
Co-regulation
Bubble Language
Calm/Wild/Cave states
Environmental influence
Curiosity, play, and exploration
Modelling behaviour
Understanding behaviour through safety rather than judgement.
Reflection Questions (Page 2)
Thought-provoking prompts to deepen intentional practice:
“Which theorist best explains what I’m seeing right now?”
“How do I adjust my environment, tone, or response?”
“Which WholeChild Flow™ tool aligns with this theory?”
“How does this help me explain behaviour with more empathy?”
💡 Perfect For
✔ Documentation & linking to theory✔ Observations & analysis✔ QIP evidence and A&R visits✔ Team meetings and PD✔ Student educators✔ Program planning & intentional teaching
4-page PDF | Instant Digital Download | WholeChild Flow™ aligned
