How early years practitioners can help children develop their social and emotional skills
The first step in helping children develop their social and emotional development skills is for adults to fully understand this area of children’s development. Having this knowledge enables practitioners to full understand of how child learn and develop.
Throughout children’s lives they are expected to learn an awful lot and develop those vital skills. It is important to understand that this not an easy process for children as all children learn and develop at different ages and stages. What adults expect of children is not always achievable for the child, along the way there may be challenges to overcome and barriers to break through. Children are not naturally born with the skills to help them share, take turns and deal with their emotions. These skills have to be learnt and as early years practitioners it is essential that there is a positive approach in helping children to develop these skills.
With the new introduction of The British Values, this is a great way for settings to understand how to help children develop those social and emotional skills. The whole idea of The British values is to teach children about sharing, turn talking, respecting others wishes/ opinions, valuing other cultures beliefs and learning that choices have consequences.
For many settings the idea of how to promote The British Values has caused some confusion, as some understand it to be about teaching the children about Big Ben and the features of London. When it fact this is not what it is about, read more about the British Values here
How can practitioners help children develop their social and emotional skills?
It is good practice to ensure children are supported in their social and emotional development every day and adults should act as an effective role models. There will be times in the day where children will need that adult help in dealing with situations. If children are having difficulties sharing with their friends it is up to adults to intervene and help children learn those sharing skills. An important factor to remember is the age and stage of the child, the way in which you approach each situation will be different. The language and straggles used when communicating with children will again depend on the child’s level of understanding.
Why not use circle time as a set time where activities are focused around social and emotional development. There are many activities that can be used to help children deal with their emotions and feelings. You can introduce turn taking activities and other activities that involve waiting for their turn.
The Handy Band: Supporting Personal, Social and Emotional Development with New Songs from Old Favour
Why not try this great songbook, it contains songs to help with taking turns, washing and dressing and respecting people. Click here for more details.
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