In our previous post, we talked about what SEL really means. It’s learning to understand feelings, manage emotions, build relationships, and make thoughtful choices. In short, SEL helps children learn how to be with themselves and with others.
The early years are a time of rapid growth — not just physically, but emotionally and socially too. During this stage, children are forming the foundation for how they handle emotions, relate to others, and approach challenges later in life. Supporting SEL early helps children feel safe, confident, and ready to learn — not by pushing them to “behave,” but by helping them understand what they’re feeling and what to do with those feelings.
So now comes the next important question: why does SEL matter so much, especially in early childhood?
The early years shape more than we realize
Young children are learning constantly — not just letters and numbers, but how the world works. They’re figuring out questions like: “Is it okay to feel upset? What do I do when I’m frustrated? How do I make a friend? What happens if I make a mistake?”
SEL helps children make sense of all of this. When kids learn how to recognize emotions, manage big feelings, and connect with others, they feel safer and more confident exploring their world.
SEL supports learning — without pressure
When children feel understood and emotionally secure, learning comes more naturally. Kids who can manage frustration are more willing to try again. Children who can communicate feelings are less likely to act them out. And kids who know how to connect with others tend to enjoy school more.
Research consistently shows that children with strong social-emotional skills do better not only socially, but academically too. But for parents, the takeaway is simple: when kids feel good emotionally, they learn better — no extra worksheets required.
The skills that last a lifetime
SEL isn’t just about the preschool years. These early skills grow into lifelong abilities — handling stress, working with others, solving problems, and making thoughtful decisions. Teaching SEL early gives children a strong foundation they’ll keep building on as they grow.
And no, this doesn’t mean raising “perfectly calm” children. It means helping kids understand that feelings are normal — and that they have tools to handle them.
Parents are the first and most powerful SEL teachers
School programs help, but the biggest influence on young children’s social and emotional growth is at home. Simple, everyday routines — naming feelings, modeling calm behavior, offering choices, and playing together — give children practice with these skills in real life. When home and school use similar language and strategies, children get consistent practice and stronger results.
Here’s the reassuring part: you don’t need to teach SEL formally. You’re already doing it. Every time you:
- Name a feeling (“You look frustrated”)
- Stay calm during a meltdown (even if it’s hard)
- Let your child make small choices
- Play together or listen without rushing
- You’re helping your child learn social-emotional skills.
A gentle reminder
There’s no finish line with SEL. Some days will feel smooth; others won’t — and that’s okay. What matters is consistency, care, and giving children space to grow emotionally at their own pace.
Because long before children learn how to read or write, they’re learning how to feel, relate, and respond. And those skills will support everything else that comes after.
Recommended Reading for Parents:
- Why Social and Emotional Learning Is Essential for Students | Edutopia
- When do babies first smile? – HealthyChildren.org
written by Shandy Lwieka,
Tutor Time Indonesia
