Why Social-Emotional Learning Matters

August 08, 2023

With schools reopening after more than 2 years of the COVID-19 pandemic, children need support readjusting not only to school life but also to social life. It goes without saying that the COVID-19 pandemic has left many children socially and emotionally wounded.

Reports show that children who are seemingly obedient and calm during home learning start to develop behavioral issues as soon as they step into the classroom. Socially withdrawn, lack of focus, or disruptive behaviors are a few of the many setbacks due to social-emotional learning loss.

This is why integrating social-emotional learning, or SEL for short, back into a child’s life is now more important than ever. Learning the foundational social-emotional skills is necessary to help children find their feet in social situations, which in turn improves their academic performance.

The Benefits of Social-Emotional Learning

Research shows that social-emotional learning contributes to improvements in the following areas:

  • self-awareness
  • self-esteem
  • empathy
  • communication skills
  • problem-solving
  • positive thinking mindset
  • mood

Furthermore, children with strong social-emotional skills are able to manage stress, resist impulsive behavior, handle pressure, and maintain healthy relationships at home and at school.

From an academic perspective, children achieve better in areas such as reading, math, and other core school subjects.

In the long term, high social-emotional competence can increase the likelihood of career success and reduce the risk of depression.

How Parents Benefit

When children are able to manage their own feelings, parents will spend less time frustrated over their children’s tantrums and can focus more on improving relationships.

Practicing social-emotional skills at home also helps parents and children build strong bonds. Parents have more time to engage with their children and do fun activities together, such as reading stories, playing games, or even going for walks.

More importantly, focusing on children’s strengths instead of weaknesses, helping to understand the perspective of others, listening actively and asking questions while also listening attentively to their needs will prepare them to face challenges with positive attitudes, perseverance, resilience, and confidence. Children having these traits will surely make any parent proud.

Supportive Environment

Needless to say, providing a supportive environment also presents children with opportunities to extend learning beyond classrooms. After-school activities are a great venue for them to apply their new social-emotional skills and develop personal talents.

The COVID-19 pandemic might deplete children of social-emotional needs. It is important for the family and school community to work together to help children find their way back to a place where they belong.

 

written by Shandy Lwieka,
Tutor Time Indonesia

 

Source: Why Social and Emotional Learning Is Essential for Students | Edutopia

Leave a reply
Understanding Social-Emotional SkillsSocial and Emotional Development: Is My Child Socially Delayed?
All comments (2)
  • telkom university
    August 26, 2023 at 4:50 pm

    How can parents and educators foster the development of traits such as focusing on strengths, understanding others' perspectives, active listening, asking questions, and instilling qualities […] Read MoreHow can parents and educators foster the development of traits such as focusing on strengths, understanding others' perspectives, active listening, asking questions, and instilling qualities like positive attitudes, perseverance, resilience, and confidence in children, which are essential for them to confidently tackle challenges and make meaningful progress in their lives? Read Less

    Reply

Leave Your Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *