Social and emotional competence of children
Resources for parents
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Why is it important to help your child learn social and emotional skills?
Children who can express their feelings, manage their emotions, and build healthy relationships are better able to cope with life’s ups and downs. These are called social and emotional skills. They help kids develop in a healthy way and protect them from harm. Teaching kids social and emotional skills is a healthy way to build safe, stable, and nurturing relationships.
How do social and emotional skills make stronger families?
- It lowers frustration—for both you and your child—when kids can name their feelings and ask for help.
- It’s easier for you to stay calm and respond in a positive way when your child can express their needs.
- Life is better for everyone in the family when kids can manage their emotions.
- Children with strong emotional skills are more likely to form trusting relationships with adults, which makes it easier to spot and stop abuse if it happens.
- These are skills that will keep your child safe and strong throughout their life.
What can you do to help your child learn social and emotional skills?
Talk about feelings and help kids name their emotions.
Work through small challenges together to teach problem-solving skills.
Praise your child’s efforts to stay calm or show kindness.
Model healthy ways to express emotions—even when you’re stressed.