In recent years, emotional learning has become an essential part of early childhood education. Social-emotional development, which includes skills like empathy, self-regulation, and cooperation, plays a crucial role in a child’s ability to succeed both academically and socially. At Iris Florets, we prioritize emotional learning alongside cognitive and physical development, helping children build the social-emotional skills they need to thrive. This article explores the importance of emotional learning in preschool and how Iris Florets supports the social-emotional growth of every child.
What is Emotional Learning?
Emotional learning refers to the development of skills that help children understand and manage their emotions, form healthy relationships, and make responsible decisions. According to a 2022 study by the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL), children who receive emotional learning support in preschool are 42% more likely to succeed in school and 30% more likely to have positive social interactions with peers.
Why Emotional Learning is Critical in Early Childhood
Early childhood is a period of rapid emotional development. Children are learning to express their feelings, navigate social situations, and understand the emotions of others. Emotional learning helps children:
- Build Emotional Resilience: By learning to identify and manage their emotions, children become more resilient and better equipped to handle challenges.
- Develop Empathy: Emotional learning teaches children to recognize and understand the emotions of others, fostering empathy and compassion.
- Improve Communication Skills: Children who can express their emotions clearly are better able to communicate their needs and feelings, reducing frustration and conflict.
At Iris Florets, we integrate emotional learning into our daily curriculum, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to develop these crucial skills.
How Iris Florets Supports Emotional Learning
At Iris Florets, emotional learning is woven into every aspect of our program. We create a nurturing environment where children feel safe to express their emotions and learn how to navigate social interactions. Here’s how we incorporate emotional learning into our curriculum:
- Circle Time: Each day begins with circle time, where children are encouraged to share their thoughts and feelings. This helps them develop self-awareness and practice communicating their emotions.
- Role-Playing: Through role-playing activities, children practice different social scenarios, such as sharing toys, resolving conflicts, or comforting a friend in distress. Role-playing helps children develop empathy and learn how to handle various social situations.
- Mindfulness Activities: At Iris Florets, we introduce simple mindfulness exercises, such as deep breathing and guided imagery, to help children learn self-regulation and emotional control.
The Link Between Emotional Learning and Academic Success
Research shows that emotional learning not only benefits children socially but also enhances academic achievement. A 2023 study by the National Institutes of Health found that children with strong emotional regulation skills are 35% more likely to perform well in math and reading by third grade.
At Iris Florets, we understand that children’s emotions and learning are deeply connected. By supporting emotional learning, we help children build the confidence and resilience they need to tackle academic challenges.
Encouraging Emotional Learning at Home
Parents play a crucial role in supporting their child’s emotional development. Here are some ways parents can encourage emotional learning at home:
- Talk About Emotions: Regularly discuss emotions with your child, helping them label their feelings and understand the emotions of others.
- Model Emotional Regulation: Children learn by watching their parents. Model healthy emotional regulation by staying calm during stressful situations and discussing how you manage your feelings.
- Practice Problem-Solving: When conflicts arise, encourage your child to think through solutions and consider how their actions affect others.
At Iris Florets, we recognize that emotional learning is just as important as academic learning. By creating a supportive, nurturing environment, we help children develop the emotional skills they need to thrive in preschool and beyond. If you’re interested in learning more about how we support social-emotional growth or would like to schedule a tour, contact us today. Let’s work together to ensure your child’s emotional and academic success.
