” I believe there is no possibility of existing without relationship.  Relationship is a necessity of life.” (Loris Malaguzzi) Children are relationship builders and meaning makers from the very first days of life.  Their quest to explore, establish connections and make sense of their world is innate.  When we understand children as competent learners and hour their right to respectful relationships, we recognise their agency, capabilities and interdependence.  Recognising relationships as “the glue which holds learning in place supports educators to list to, learn with and research alongside children.  By recognising the impact of listening in relationships between children and adults we are able to support meaning making and authentic participation for everyone involved.  Enhancing the role of the educator from this perspective recognises that all children develop, make sense of their world and connect to life within a ‘context of relationships’.  This keynote presentation will focus on how the way we listen to children and understand their relationships establishes the foundations for strong and connected learning in early childhood settings.  It offers considerations on three important questions: How do we understand children and their relationship? When we listen to children in relationship what do we hear? How do we allow what we hear to shape what we do with and for young children?