At the heart of MindChamps PreSchool curriculum is the S.M.I.L.E.S.™ methodology, an approach that encompasses Sensory, Motor, Intellectual, Linguistic, Emotional and Social skill development to provide a holistic learning experience for each child.
Previously, we explored the benefits of sensory play in early childhood education. Today, we’ll delve into the perks of social-emotional learning in early childhood education.
Social emotional learning (SEL) has emerged as a pivotal element in nurturing resilient and adaptable children, possessing self-confidence, empathy, and an acute awareness of their significance and the value of others.
And that’s not all that SEL brings to the table, it plays a vital role in various developmental areas, including cognitive, motor, and language skills. But first what is SEL?
Understanding Social Emotional Learning
Defined by the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL), SEL is a process that enables individuals, both young and adult, to cultivate and utilise knowledge, skills, and attitudes essential for fostering healthy identities, managing emotions, accomplishing personal and collective objectives, showing empathy, sustaining supportive relationships, and making thoughtful and caring choices.
The Link Between SEL and Academic Gains
Research indicates a notable improvement in academic achievements among children who engage in SEL programmes, with an average increase of 11 percentile points in their grades and enhanced attendance records.
Curricula that integrate SEL, such as the S.M.I.L.E.S.™ methodology, also lead to diminished negative student behaviours, facilitating greater concentration and engagement during academic sessions.
Furthermore, crucial executive functioning skills like emotional regulation, adaptability, and self-management are foundational for early academic success. These skills manifest in early education settings as the ability to sit quietly, follow instructions, collaborate in groups, and interact harmoniously with peers.
Children who lack these social and behavioural skills in kindergarten are more likely to require additional academic support and face challenges such as grade retention and suspension by fourth grade, as observed by studies.
SEL & the Seeds of Resilience
SEL provides students with the skills necessary to navigate personal challenges, an essential attribute for managing life’s pressures.
The development of SEL in early childhood equips children with adaptability, enabling them to adjust effectively to new situations. It helps them maintain a positive outlook even in adverse circumstances, persevere through obstacles, and utilise both internal and external resources to overcome challenges.
MindChamps preschool programmes, are designed to nurture these skills through engaging and enjoyable activities. For example, MindChamps Music™, the world’s first integrated music-in-education programme, is designed to activate every area of the brain; we have integrated music, multiple literacies, numeracy and social and emotional development to nurture the “Genius Potential” in your child.
SEL Promotes Mental Health and Emotional Regulation
A study which tracked outcomes from kindergarten through to 19 years later, found that children with strong social-emotional skills in kindergarten were more likely to achieve academic, professional, and other life successes.
Participants in SEL programmes typically display enhanced social skills, attitudes, goal-setting abilities, problem-solving capabilities, and tend to experience fewer behavioural problems and less emotional distress.
Globally, educational institutions are increasingly prioritising mental health by fostering students’ SEL skills. Children adept in SEL are less likely to suffer from anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues. At MindChamps, we’ve created an environment where students can participate in activities such as arts or drama clubs, that teach vital life lessons and support social-emotional well-being.
Final Thoughts
The skills developed through SEL create a positive impact that extends to our communities, homes, and workplaces. MindChamps is dedicated to instilling positive values in every child who enters our doors, equipping them with the necessary skills to navigate the various challenges life presents.
Learn more about our award winning pedagogy. If you wish to book a centre visit, you can do so by clicking here.