The preschooler age is when children start to recognize and be aware of others’ feelings and emotions. At this stage, it is critical that parents find ways to further nurture the socio-emotional development of preschoolers.
Medically reviewed by Regina Victoria Boyles, MD · Pediatrics
The preschooler age is when children start to recognize and be aware of others’ feelings and emotions. At this stage, it is critical that parents find ways to further nurture the socio-emotional development of preschoolers.
Socio-emotional development is a process related to a child’s development. It is about how children express, understand, and manage their feelings and emotions as well as control their behavior.
This process is also about the ability of children to acknowledge the feeling and emotions of other people. Building and sustaining relationships with other children and adults is a part of the socio-emotional development of preschoolers.
The socio-emotional development of preschoolers is important because:
Here are socio-emotional development milestones for children, ages 3 to 5:
Lying (white lies) is a part of the process of every child’s development. White lie-telling in preschoolers often happens because they are still not aware that they’re lying. They also use it to test and see the reactions of adults or their peers.
As parents, it is your duty to provide guidance to your children. Your guidance is a key factor in order for them to hone their socio-emotional skills. Here are some tips on how to nurture the socio-emotional development of preschoolers:
A child’s character will depend upon the parent’s behavior and the way they deal with emotions. Being a good role model is a way for parents to help their children adopt good habits and behavior.
Do not be afraid to show emotions and vulnerability to children. This will help them feel welcome and safe to share their emotions as well. They will also become more aware that their actions will have emotional effects on their parents.
Responding to your child’s behavior and emotions has a great influence on their development. Preschoolers will learn a sense of concern, care, and understanding from their parents’ responsiveness.
Showing love and affection towards children helps in building their confidence and self-esteem. This will also teach them how to be affectionate towards others. Being affectionate nurtures the socio-emotional development of preschoolers.
Let children experience the fun of childhood by letting them form relationships with other children. Making friends will help preschoolers learn several skills such as sharing, cooperating, and managing other kid’s feelings and behaviors.
Avoid forcing preschoolers to make friends since different kids have different approaches when it comes to meeting new people.
Playing is not just for fun and enjoyment. It is also another way for parents to nurture the socio-emotional development of preschoolers. Play with your child as often as you can. For them to have the opportunity to learn the idea of winning and losing, negotiating, and sharing.
Engage in a conversation with your child about the emotions they feel. Doing this will leave a positive impression on your child. They will become aware that you are there to care and are willing to listen to their thoughts. This act will also inspire your preschooler to do the same with other people.
It is nice to let preschoolers explore and figure things out by themselves. Although they would still need help when they are under difficult circumstances.
Parents don’t need to interrupt children’s playtime if they think that they’re having difficulties. Instead, it is best if parents would just wait for children to voluntarily ask for help.
Until they have all the necessary skills they need, preschoolers will continue to grow and develop. The skills they will acquire in their younger years will help them become healthier and more well-adjusted individuals in the future.
The socio-emotional development of preschoolers is as important as any other developments such as mental and physical.
Learn more about Parenting here.
Disclaimer
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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