Emotional Regulation: Promoting social emotional learning at home for parents and caregivers
Since the pandemic, parents and caregivers have been tasked with supporting their child’s academic success through distance learning. At school, teachers were responsible for fostering social emotional skills which are necessary for the child's success at school and making friends. It’s important that parents and caregivers understand the concept of SEL in order to oversee learning at home for their child.
What is social emotional learning?
Social emotional learning (SEL) is a framework for teaching children how to regulate emotions, establish healthy relationships, and make responsible decisions. Children with good social emotional skills are proven to have better relationships with peers, demonstrate better problem solving skills, and can set and achieve positive goals. Read more about SEL
What are the five core competencies?
The Collaborative for Social Emotional Learning (CASEL) developed five core competencies for teaching SEL to children. They are as follows:
Self-Management
This is the ability for a child to regulate their own emotions in different situations. Skills needed for this competency are self-discipline and good stress-management skills. A good example of this is being organized, set attainable goals, and are internally motivated to complete tasks.
Self- Awareness
The ability to recognize one’s own emotions, thoughts, and how it is influenced by behavior. Skills needed for this competency are self-confidence and the ability to recognize one’s own strengths and weaknesses. A good example of this is when a child is able to set boundaries with themselves and others around them. The ability to set boundaries, reflect on your own thoughts and actions is a good indicator of becoming self-aware.
Social Awareness
The ability to show and understand empathy towards others. The skills needed for this competency includes empathy, and respect for others. An example of this is when a child is able to take and understand another’s perspective. They begin to see and recognize social cues.
Responsible Decision Making
This is the ability to make good and positive decisions. Skills needed for this competency are problem solving and analytical skills. An example of this during a dressing routine may include choosing an outfit that helps stay warm when it is cold outside.
Relationship Skills
The ability to form positive relationships with peers, work well in teams, and handle conflicts effectively. Skills needed for this competency are active listening and communicating well with others. An example of this may include actively listening and treating peers with respect.
Four ways you can practice with your child at home?
1. Be a good listener to your child!
Listen to your child’s verbal and non-verbal way of communicating. Do not assume what your child is trying to communicate the next time they ‘throw a fit’. Ask questions and reflect on their responses. Practice good eye contact with them. The next time your child is angry about a situation, make them feel heard by validating their emotions. By using responses such as “I hear you” and “tell me more about that” you can help them understand their own emotions and open up about their feelings.
2. Nurture your child’s self-esteem!
It’s important to give verbal praises to your child when it’s appropriate. When helping them to learn new skills such as tying a shoe or riding a bike, model the way and give them time to hone in that skill and be patient. Kids learn through observation so model the behavior you want them to do. By giving your child the space and time to learn at their own pace, you increase their self-esteem.
3. Establish good routines!
Lastly, establishing good routines with your child can help them to stay motivated and in control of their environment. Craft a good routine for your child to stick to while at home. Wake them up at the same time every morning and give breakfast at the same time. Creating an intentional schedule at home can foster your child’s social emotional learning. You can create visual schedules with your child for their morning routine. Use stickers such as stars to help them stay on track on the schedule. Here is an easy step-by-step example of a good morning routine!
We hope you found this informative and useful! Social emotional learning is an important concept for helping children to gain important life skills necessary for development. Learning to regulate emotions is not an easy task and can take time for some children. Let us know if you found this information helpful and check out more tips and tricks on our Instagram page!