A connection between mindfulness and the social-emotional development of young children
February 1, 2022; By Judith Ehret, STARS Coach, Child Care Connection Bozeman
Along with needing supports as adults, we must strongly support our young children, now more than ever. Emotions, stress, and worry look different in young children. Their ability to cope and regulate is something we must be able to teach them. Especially those without the means to communicate yet. Whether a parent or educator, supporting early social-emotional development is a key component to the mental health and wellbeing of our children.
Did you know that we can harness the power of mindfulness to help children feel safe and secure? “Live Present” is the way of the new year, and early childhood classrooms are embracing this to help support the social emotional wellbeing of children. Being able to notice what is happening both inside and around you without reacting, judging, or overthinking things is a wonderful skill to learn.
The rapid brain development of a child, and our positive support as adults will hugely affect the emerging capacity for a child to:
- Develop relationships on trust with peers and adults
- Actively wanting to learn and explore their environment
- Feeling safe sharing emotions when they are ready
Most often the social emotional development unfolds in predictable ways. With our support, mindfulness strategies and positive environments at home and school, children will be able to cope and regulate in this time of uncertainty and change. The integration of mindfulness will increase our emotional awareness and self-regulation for both your child and you! Accepting children’s needs and feelings are a great step in the social emotional success.
For more information about instructing your own mindful child or introducing skills into the classroom please reach out to your local STARS Coach today. CCC’s STARS Coaches are Judith Ehret and Sara Silva, contact them here!
