SIX Ways Parents Can Support Children's Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)!

Parents are their children's first teachers, supporting children in developing self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making skills needed to succeed in school, work, and life. These five skills make up Social-Emotional Learning (SEL).

Parents can teach SEL using many methods. Why do parents need to learn how to be intentional in teaching these skills? The answers may surprise you!

Children who learn self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making skills are more able to:
​

• Understand and manage their emotions. This includes being able to identify their emotions, express them in a healthy way, and cope with difficult emotions and be empathetic.
• Build positive relationships. This includes being able to make friends, resolve conflicts, and cooperate with others.
• Make responsible decisions. This includes being able to weigh the pros and cons of different choices, and make choices that are in their best interest.
• Be successful in school and work. SEL skills can help children succeed in school by improving their attendance, grades, and behavior. They can also help children succeed in work by improving their communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
• Be healthy and happy. SEL skills can help children develop a positive self-image, cope with stress, and make healthy choices.
  
  

While there are many ways to help children develop SEL skills, here are SIX ways you as a parent or caring adult can make a difference! 
​

1. MODEL SEL skills. Children learn by watching the adults in their lives. If you want your child to develop SEL skills, it's important to model those skills yourself. 
2. TALK to and EMPATHIZE with your child's emotions. Help your child understand what different emotions feel like, and how to express them in a healthy way.
3. HELP your child build positive relationships. Encourage your child to make friends, provide opportunities for playdates and help them resolve conflicts peacefully.
4. GIVE your child opportunities to make independent decisions. Start by giving your child small choices, and gradually give them more responsibility as they get older.
5. PRAISE your child's SEL skills. When your child shows SEL skills, be sure to praise them. This will help them feel good about themselves and encourage them to continue using those skills.
6. READ TOGETHER! Use stories to demonstrate through characters, how to connect, identify feelings and illustrate decisions and values. 
   
   

SEL is an important part of a child's development. By helping children develop SEL skills, we can give them the tools they need to succeed in school, work, and life.

Maryellen P. Mullin, LMFT is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist,  author of two NEW children's books, specifically written to support parents and caring adults teach SEL skills with children.

You can find her books with theses links below:
Puppy and Kitten Find a Family
Madigan and Menina Find Their "Furever" Famil