While children develop social-emotional learning skills at school, their foundations are built at home. From establishing at-home routines to engaging in creative family activities, children first find their social-emotional footing from their home support system.
At St. Timothy’s School, we recognize the value of social-emotional learning inside and outside the classroom. Our social-emotional program teaches students critical cognitive skills such as self-awareness, self-management, and relationship skills. We encourage our families to expand on these skills at home to continue students’ progress. Read below to learn about teaching social-emotional learning at home.
Read with Purpose
One of the easiest ways to teach social-emotional learning at home is to turn your child’s reading session into a lesson. Intentionally choosing stories where characters exhibit social-emotional lessons can teach your child empathy. For example, while reading a book with your child, you can pause during social-emotional scenes and start a discussion with your child. Ask your child how they think the character feels and how they should act on these emotions.
Create Routine
Routine is essential to a child’s development, especially at home. Since their school schedule is consistent, it is helpful for them also to have some structure at home. Whether setting aside time for homework or creating a bedtime ritual, establishing an at-home routine helps reinforce regular routine and encourages them to behave ethically and responsibly.
Practice Active Listening
Children practice active listening every day in the classroom. However, they also have many opportunities to practice at home. As a parent, facilitating introspective conversations is a great way to model and engage in active listening. By asking follow-up questions and maintaining eye contact, you demonstrate active listening to your child and encourage them to follow suit in several ways. Conversations like these will help them become more assertive communicators and more intent listeners to peers, teachers, and others in their school community.
Engage in Creative Activities
Creativity and social-emotional learning go hand in hand. Whether trying your hand at a puzzle or writing your own short story, creativity helps open people up and display their way of thinking to the world. As a parent, it’s easy to facilitate creative activities at home. Consider having a family game night or taking on a group art project. Any opportunity for your child to tap into their creative side is a window for social-emotional learning.
Private Education at St. Timothy’s School
St. Timothy’s School is a private school in Raleigh, NC, that emphasizes the importance of social-emotional learning in the classroom. Our team incorporates mindful social-emotional learning strategies to support mental wellness, build connections, and give students real-life skills. Visit our website today to learn more about St. Timothy’s School.