Date
12-2023
Document Type
Capstone Project (Open Access)
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
Department
Human Development & Family Science
Abstract
My capstone project enhances the social-emotional skills of preschool children, which are fundamental for relationships, emotional management, and empathy. Children lacking these skills may struggle in learning, behavior, and socializing when they progress to elementary school. Studies have shown that social-emotional competence and cognitive competence are critical predictors of academic accomplishment (Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) and Student Benefits: Implications for the Safe Schools/Healthy Students Core Elements, n.d.). Children in preschool who lack these skills may experience difficulties in learning, behavior, and socializing as they progress to elementary school (Amy Morin, 2019). A significant issue arises when children encounter obstacles in the development of their social and emotional skills. This can manifest in behaviors including aggression, crying, misunderstandings, and difficulty regulating emotions.
The repercussions of such struggles extend beyond the child and can affect their peers and teachers in the classroom. Therefore, I designed a specialized curriculum for 3-5-year-olds that I implemented at Ocean Rock's Preschool Ministry in Marina. Using Tucker the Turtle's story to teach them to identify emotions, resolve conflicts, and regulate emotions. Additionally, we created a conflict resolution kit and conducted an activity on regulating emotions. By developing these skills, young learners will be better equipped to succeed academically and socially as they grow and learn.
Recommended Citation
Valdez, Stephanie, "The Importance of Teaching Social-Emotional Skills to Young Children" (2023). Capstone Projects and Master's Theses. 1617.
https://digitalcommons.csumb.edu/caps_thes_all/1617
Included in
Curriculum and Instruction Commons, Early Childhood Education Commons, Educational Methods Commons, Elementary Education Commons